Race Differences in the Multiple Social Roles of Midlife Women: Implications for Mental Well-Being

TitleRace Differences in the Multiple Social Roles of Midlife Women: Implications for Mental Well-Being
Publication TypeReport
Year of Publication1996
AuthorsBrown, DR, Cochran, D, McGregor, KC
KeywordsDemographics, Health Conditions and Status, Women and Minorities
Abstract

An examination of the relationship between multiple role participation and the level of distress experienced by midlife African-American and white women. Data from the Health and Retirement Study regarding 2,699 women ages 55-64 show that more whites were married than African Americans. Further, African Americans were more likely to: be separated, unemployed, sick, and disabled; provide care to one of their own children, a parent, or a husband's parent; and provide at least 100 hours of care to a grandchild. White women were more likely to occupy more roles and to be homemakers. When other factors are controlled (eg, age, education), the results show no difference for either race. Higher levels of depression for African Americans appear attributable to their lower likelihood of being married and having fewer social roles than white women.

Endnote Keywords

Women--Roles/Middle Aged Adults/Black Americans/Whites/Psychological Distress/multiple role participation distress level relationship, midlife African/white women/Health Status

Endnote ID

1280

Citation Key5318