Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

School

Social Work

Advisor

Dorothy Scotten

Abstract

Although there is a greater proportion of people living with depressive disorders within the African American older adult population compared to their White counterparts, fewer African Americans are engaging in mental health treatment when compared to the Caucasian community. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences and practices of social workers who are providing mental health care treatment to African American older adult patients (aged 65 and over) living with a depressive disorder. The study was framed using both the health belief model and critical race theory. To address the research questions, a generic qualitative design was used, incorporating semistructured interviews to explore the experiences and perspectives of seven social work practitioners providing care to African American older adult patients experiencing depressive disorders. Thematic analysis was used to analyze and reveal themes in the data. Findings revealed social workers can address issues of distrust, low autonomy, low engagement, and the resultant low participation and poor outcomes by prioritizing the development of trusting therapeutic relationships using conversational treatment plans to develop relationships over time, while minimizing defensiveness due to preconceived notions of stigma. Providing greater opportunities for engagement is critical to achieving positive outcomes. Program changes and educational opportunities to reduce stigma and support cultural awareness, both for therapists and clients, may help positive social change by affecting attitudes around mental health services and participation.

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