Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Amanda Rose

Abstract

Co-rumination is the process of friends discussing challenges via a problem-focused dialogue that is excessive and involves dwelling on negative emotions. Co-rumination is related to higher friendship quality but also depression. The adjustment consequences of co-rumination have been studied, but racial differences in co-rumination have yet to be studied. The purpose of this non-experimental, correlational, quantitative study was to examine co-rumination among Black and White adolescents. Theoretical frameworks included the response styles theory and Africentric theory. Research questions included whether there were racial differences in the degree to which adolescents co-ruminate and in the relations of co-rumination with friendship quality and depressive symptoms. Data previously collected with approximately 569 adolescents were used to test the research questions. The dataset included participants’ responses to measures assessing co-rumination, friendship quality, and depressive symptoms. ANOVAs, correlations, and regression analyses were conducted to test the research questions. Findings indicated that race did not moderate the relation between rumination and friendship quality, nor the relation between co-rumination and depressive symptoms. The positive social change implications are evident in this study as the results of the study will help to inform prevention and intervention efforts aimed at addressing risks associated with co-rumination in Black and White adolescent friendships.

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