Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Leslie Barnes-Young

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between racial discrimination and anger, stress, and obesity. The stress-disease model provided a theoretical perspective of the biological, psychological, and social pathways from stress. Past research regarding the correlation between racial discrimination, anger, stress, and obesity reported a possible connection, but results have been mixed. This research expanded upon existing literature that proposed that blatant or subtle experiences of racial discrimination are pathways to mental and physical health consequences. The hypothesis was that there was a significant relationship between racial discrimination and the levels of stress, anger, and obesity. Racial discrimination was measured with the Individualized Race-Related Stress Scale, Dimensions of Anger Reactions, Perceived Stress Scale, and self-reported body mass index (BMI). The sample consisted of 108 African American adults 18 to 65 years old who resided in the United States. Multiple linear regression was implemented to analyze the relationship between the variables. Analyses revealed that race-related stress was significantly related to stress, anger, and BMI. This study could lead to positive social change by providing useful information related to future stress and weight management for African Americans.

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