Racial differences in coping strategies among individuals with epilepsy
1Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, Department of Neurology, University of Florida Health Sciences Center/Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|August 14, 2013
Summary
Racial differences in epilepsy coping exist. African-Americans with epilepsy use more engagement coping strategies and denial compared to Caucasians.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Epilepsy affects diverse populations.
- Coping mechanisms are crucial for managing chronic conditions like epilepsy.
- Understanding racial variations in coping can inform culturally sensitive care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential racial disparities in coping styles among individuals diagnosed with epilepsy.
- To compare the coping strategies employed by Caucasian and African-American patients with epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- A survey-based study was conducted on patients diagnosed with epilepsy.
- The Brief-COPE inventory was administered to assess coping mechanisms.
- Demographic and clinical data, including income and antiepileptic drug (AED) usage, were collected.
Main Results:
- The study included 113 Caucasians and 70 African-Americans.
- Significant differences were observed in income, disability benefits, and AED usage between racial groups.
- African-Americans reported higher use of religion, denial, emotional support, positive reframing, and planning compared to Caucasians.
Conclusions:
- African-Americans with epilepsy tend to use more engagement-type coping strategies than Caucasians.
- The utilization of denial as a coping mechanism was also higher among African-Americans.
- Findings suggest race influences coping strategies in epilepsy management.
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