ABSTRACT
Researchers have noted the detrimental effects of racial microaggressions on the mental health of Black college students. Further, research has identified ethnic identity as a possible moderating factor on the mental health of racial minorities. We examined six dimensions of racial microaggressions and their relation to depression symptoms in a sample of 189 Black college students. We also investigated whether or not ethnic identity served as a moderator. Regression analyses demonstrated significant positive associations between all six dimensions of racial microaggressions and depression, and that ethnic identity significantly moderated the relationship between one dimension (i.e., Low-Achieving/Undesirable Culture) and depression, such that ethnic identity strengthened the relationship between this dimension and depression symptoms. . We discuss implications for research and clinical practice on college campuses, including a need for college counselors to address racial microaggressions and ethnic identity in their clinical work.
Disclosure statement
The authors have no conflicting interests to report nor any financial disclosures to report.