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. 2018 Jan 11;73(2):219-229.
doi: 10.1093/geronb/gbx076.

Risk and Protective Factors for Depressive Symptoms Among African American Men: An Application of the Stress Process Model

Mathew D Gayman  1 , Ben Lennox Kail  1 , Amy Spring  1 , George R Greenidge Jr  1
Affiliations

Risk and Protective Factors for Depressive Symptoms Among African American Men: An Application of the Stress Process Model

Mathew D Gayman et al. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci. .

Abstract

Objectives: This study employs the stress process model (SPM) to identify risk/protective factors for mental health among adult African American men.

Method: Using a community-based sample of Miami, FL residents linked to neighborhood Census data, this study identifies risk/protective factors for depressive symptomatology using a sample of 248 adult African American men.

Results: The stress process variables independently associated with depressive symptoms were family support, mastery, self-esteem, chronic stressors, and daily discrimination. While mastery and self-esteem mediated the relationship between neighborhood income and depressive symptoms, perceived family support served as a buffer for stress exposure. Collectively, the SPM explains nearly half of the variability in depressive symptoms among African American men.

Discussion: The SPM is a useful conceptual framework for identifying psychosocial risk/protective factors and directing health initiatives and policies aimed at improving the psychological health of African American men.

Keywords: Coping resources; Depressive symptoms; Stressors.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
(a) Additive effects. (b) Mediation effects. (c) Moderation effects.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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