Analyzing qualitative data using four theoretical perspectives to understand community-defined evidence for improved mental health outcomes in Blacks

In America, it is well documented that African Americans, as well as other ethnic and racial populations, are unserved, underserved or inappropriately served in the mental health system. Throughout the nation, little evidence documents from the perspective of the people of African descent (i.e. African Americans, Continental Africans, Afro-Latinos, Afro-Caribbean, and Africans any other nationality) their reasons for continual disparate outcomes in mental and behavioral health. Likewise sparse evidence is available that identifies their recommendations for improving mental health outcomes in their population. Utilizing a community-based participatory research approach, people of African descent throughout California were engaged in a statewide project to understand from their perspective what was needed to improve outcomes toward mental health prevention and early intervention. Qualitative data was collected from over 500 self-identified people of African descent who participated in focus groups and small group discussions. One major factor contributing to understanding outcomes in qualitative research is the perspective of the data analysts. This paper will present four different approaches in analyzing and interpreting qualitative data of 35 statewide focus groups. The four analytical perspectives included public health, social science, African-Centered Black psychology, and client/client family members. Data analysis processes and outcomes will be discussed, as well as implications for more appropriate and relevant program interventions. Broader study results have implications for documenting community-defined evidence and emerging practices to significantly improve mental and behavioral health outcomes for African Americans.