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Mental Health and Black Male Graduate Students
Krista Mincey1, Crystal Allen-Joyner2, Rick Bowens3
1Department of Community Medicine, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, Georgia, USA.
Social Work in Public Health
|July 5, 2024
Summary
Black men in graduate school face mental health challenges due to societal expectations and pressure to appear strong. Culturally relevant support is crucial for addressing racial discrimination and promoting help-seeking behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Higher Education
Background:
- Masculinity norms and racial discrimination significantly impact mental well-being.
- Black male graduate students often navigate unique stressors within academic environments.
- Understanding these specific challenges is vital for developing targeted support systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the influence of masculinity and race on the mental health of Black male graduate students.
- To identify key factors contributing to mental health challenges in this demographic.
- To inform the development of effective interventions and support services.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative study employing in-depth interviews.
- Participants were Black male graduate students at a private Southern university.
- Data analysis involved thematic identification from transcribed interviews.
Main Results:
- Twenty-nine students aged 23-51 participated.
- Key impacting factors identified were: societal expectations, pressure, and the need to appear strong.
- These elements were significantly associated with mental health outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Universities should create programs to help Black men cope with racial discrimination constructively.
- Culturally sensitive mental health services are necessary to destigmatize help-seeking.
- Promoting help-seeking as a strength is essential for this population.
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