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The racial stereotype about mental illness.
Guy A Boysen1, Erika L Axtell1, Abigail G Kishimoto1
1McKendree University.
The Journal of Social Psychology
|January 24, 2022
Summary
People commonly associate mental illness stereotypes with White individuals more than other races. This racial bias in mental illness perception may explain disparities in mental healthcare access and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Racial stereotypes can influence perceptions of mental illness.
- Understanding these stereotypes is crucial for addressing mental health disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the existence and nature of racial stereotypes associated with mental illness.
- To determine if mental illness is stereotypically linked to specific racial groups.
Main Methods:
- Four studies were conducted with a total of 955 participants.
- Methods included surveys assessing perceptions of mental illness across different racial groups.
Main Results:
- Participants predominantly associated mental illness with White individuals.
- This White racial stereotype of mental illness was prevalent across racial groups but less common among non-Whites.
- Mental illness was perceived as least likely among Asians, followed by Blacks and Whites.
Conclusions:
- A significant racial stereotype exists, associating mental illness more with White people than other races.
- This stereotype may contribute to racial disparities in mental healthcare and the interpretation of behaviors.
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