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Ethnicity/race, paranoia, and hospitalization for mental health problems among men

Arthur L Whaley1

  • 1New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA. drawhaley@aol.com

American Journal of Public Health
|January 10, 2004
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Black men with mild paranoia were less likely to be hospitalized for mental health issues, contrary to expectations. Distrust in the mental health system may influence service-seeking behaviors among Black men.

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Mental Health Disparities
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Distrust in the mental health system is a significant concern, particularly among minority populations.
  • Understanding the relationship between paranoia, race, and mental health service utilization is crucial for addressing health inequities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the hypothesis that Black men with high levels of distrust (mild paranoia) face a greater risk of mental health hospitalization compared to White men.
  • To examine the interaction effect of race and mild paranoia on mental health hospitalization risk.

Main Methods:

  • Secondary analysis of data from 180 men in an epidemiological study.
  • Logistic regression analysis predicting mental health hospitalization.
  • Key predictors included ethnicity/race, mild paranoia, and their interaction.

Main Results:

  • The interaction between ethnicity/race and mild paranoia was statistically significant.
  • Contrary to the hypothesis, Black men with mild paranoia demonstrated a lower likelihood of hospitalization.

Conclusions:

  • Black men's distrust of the mental health system may deter them from seeking necessary services.
  • Acknowledging and addressing racial biases within the mental health system is essential.
  • Sincere efforts to eliminate racial disparities in mental health treatment are critical for improving outcomes.

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