Discrimination among Black women: the role of age

Experiences of discrimination vary across the life course. However, few studies have explored how attributions for discrimination differ in early adulthood, midlife, and older age. Moreover, whether discrimination from multiple sources is recognized and reported is an ongoing question. The present study examines relationships between age, domains of discrimination (e.g., item-level endorsements), and discrimination attributions among a sample of Black women.

Data were drawn from a national sample of Black women (N = 944, Mage = 44.79) recruited in 2020. Logistic regression analyses and independent samples t-tests were used to examine main effects.

Findings indicate domain-specific differences in reports of discrimination and discrimination attributions by age, such that older women report less discrimination and are less likely to report intersectional attributions for discrimination.

The current study has implications for policy interventions aimed at reducing discrimination and improving mental and physical health outcomes of minoritized populations generally, and Black women specifically.