Are We Stressed?: Women of Color and Discrimination

Abstract

Research continues to illustrate that Women of Color (WoC) have multiple sources of stress that has been found to contribute to negative health outcomes. In order to effectively achieve health equity among WoC, it is imperative to understand how WoC define, understand and cope with their daily stressors. This study aims to add to the discourse examining WoC stress and methods of coping with stressors. An electronically based survey was distributed utilizing a snowball distribution technique via social media, email and traditional methods. Ninety-seven percent (97%) of the respondents who identified as female, identified as Women of Color. The respondents reported that they had, 44% attained a Master’s degree or more, and 34% earn more than $100k annually. In regards to stress indicated that they “sometimes” experience discrimination based on race and gender and they have been limited in actions due to their race and gender. Coping mechanisms vary among the women, with, 79% “spending time alone” in response to race and gender bias. Over all WoC perceive that they experience racial and gender bias with negative health impacts. The coping mechanisms utilized, include spending time alone require further exploration to determine if it supports positive health outcomes.