Citation

Brown TN, Williams DR, Jackson JS, Neighbors HW, Torres M, Sellers SL, Brown KT. Race Soc. 2000; 2(2): 117-131.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/S1090-9524(00)00010-3

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The association between racial discrimination and mental health was examined using Wave 2 (1987-1988) and Wave 3 (1988-1989) panel data from the National Survey of Black Americans (NSBA). Mental health status was assessed by psychological distress and depression. In cross-sectional analyses, the perception of racial discrimination was related to high levels of psychological distress at Waves 2 and 3. Experiencing racial discrimination was marginally related to a high likelihood of depression at Wave 2. In longitudinal analyses, reports of racial discrimination at Wave 2 were associated with high levels of psychological distress at Wave 3. High psychological distress or depression at Wave 2 was not associated with reports of racial discrimination at Wave 3--indicating that poor mental health did not predict subjective reports (perceptions) of discrimination. The Discussion focused on possible directions for a more comprehensive program of research on mental health, stress, and experiences of racially based discrimination.