Abstract: Although sufficient evidence supports the notion that poverty has a negative effect on the psychological well-being of children, the majority of information cited has come from studies on white populations. The purpose of this literature review is to gain a better understanding of the positive and negative influences of socioeconomic factors, cultural/ethnic characteristics, and racial differences on the mental health of children. A review of the literature regarding the influence of race, ethnicity, and poverty on the mental health of children found: (1) children whose parents are in poverty or who have experienced severe economic losses are more likely to report or be reported to have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and anti-social behaviors; and (2) after controlling for socioeconomic status, African Americans, American Indians, and Hispanics were less likely to report or be reported to have such mental health problems. A possible theoretical construct for this protective effect is related to cultural factors, such as perceived social support, deep religiosity/spirituality, extended families, and maternal coping strategies as buffers against psychological distress.
Learning Objectives: To learn about the epidemiology of mental health disorders in different ethnic, racial, and socioeconmic subgroups and dpossible mediating buffers of mental disorders
Keywords: Child/Adolescent Mental Health,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.