Negative religious coping and psychological distress of African Americans dealing with prejudice

What is it about?

African American experiences of prejudice significantly predicts the use of negative religious coping (e.g., God is punishing me, the Devil did this) which increases psychological distress. Interestingly, these same experiences of prejudice do NOT predict the use of positive religious coping (e.g., reading the Bible, praying to God) .

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Why is it important?

While past research has shown that life stressors predict the use of positive religious coping for African Americans, the current study reveals opposing results for African Americans dealing with prejudice. This research moves past research that has associated African Americans with prayer and shows that religious coping methods can also be used negatively and adversely affect the psychological state of African Americans. In light of current social and political events, researchers have found acts of prejudice and discrimination against African Americans are on the rise. Moreover, the mental health and coping strategies of African Americans have also been a common topic of discussion for mental health providers.

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