Racial/Ethnic Differences in Coping Resources and Purpose in Life Among Older Americans
Author Information
Author(s): Guo Man, Wang Yi, Stangl Morgan
Primary Institution: University of Iowa
Hypothesis
This study assesses racial/ethnic differences in purpose in life among middle-aged and older adults and the role of coping resources in shaping it.
Conclusion
Black older adults reported higher purpose in life, while Hispanic older adults reported lower purpose in life compared to White older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Black older adults had significantly higher purpose in life compared to White older adults.
- Hispanic older adults had significantly lower purpose in life compared to White older adults.
- All coping resources were positively associated with higher purpose in life within each racial/ethnic group, except for religiosity among Hispanic older adults.
- Positive associations between coping resources and purpose in life were stronger among White older adults than racial/ethnic minority groups.
Takeaway
This study found that older Black Americans feel more purpose in life than older Hispanic Americans, and that support from friends and community helps everyone feel more purpose.
Methodology
The study used data from the 2016 and 2018 psychosocial assessment of the Health and Retirement Study.
Potential Biases
The findings suggest that racial/ethnic minority older adults may face unique challenges that impact their effective utilization of coping resources.
Limitations
Possible measurement bias or cultural response differences may affect the results.
Participant Demographics
Middle-aged and older adults from various racial/ethnic backgrounds.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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