'Although perceived discrimination (especially due to race-ethnicity) decreases mental health, the influence of perceived discrimination due to other reasons on mental health needs to be explored (see also Mental Health). This study examines the relationship between perceived age discrimination and mental health and determines whether psychosocial resources explain or buffer (i.e., reduce the strength of) this relationship,' investigators in the United States report.
'Using a nationally- representative sample of persons aged 25-74 from the Midlife Development in the United States survey, this study finds that perceived age discrimination is associated with higher psychological distress and lower positive well-being. Perceived age discrimination is more negatively associated with women's mental health than men's,' wrote A.S.V. Yuan and colleagues, Virginia Polytechnic Institute.
The researchers concluded: 'Although sense of control buffers the relationship between perceived age discrimination and psychological distress, perceived age discrimination decreases sense of control and social support.'
Yuan and colleagues published their study in Social Forces (Perceived age discrimination and mental health. Social Forces, 2007;86(1):291-311).
For additional information, contact A.S.V. Yuan, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University, Dept. of Sociol, 560 McBryde Hall 0137, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
The publisher of the journal Social Forces can be contacted at: University North Carolina Press, Box 2288, Journals Dept., Chapel Hill, NC 27515-2288, USA.
Keywords: United States, Blacksburg, Mental Health, Psychosocial, Virginia Polytechnic Institute.
This article was prepared by Health & Medicine Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Health & Medicine Week via NewsRx.com.
