Relationship Between Racial Discrimination, Anxiety and Risk for Depression in Pre-Licensure Nursing Students of Color
Purpose
The study examined relationships between racial microaggressions, anxiety and depressive symptoms in pre-licensure nursing students of color.
Background and significance
More than 30% of first-year college students report elevated symptoms of anxiety and depression (Auerbach et al., 2018), with students of color experiencing disproportionately higher levels due to racism and racial microaggressions (e.g., Donovan et al., 2013). Anxiety and depression significantly impact college enrollment and successful completion of the programs. However, less is known about nursing students.
Theoretical/Conceptual framework
The conceptual framework is grounded in research on race-based discrimination and symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Method
In a cross-sectional survey design, participants (N=87) in their second - fourth year in a BSN program were asked to complete questionnaires to assess their levels of anxiety, depressive symptoms and their perception and experience with racial and ethnic microaggression in their environment.
Results
Majority (70%) of the students were at risk for clinical depression and high anxiety. Greater frequency of microaggressions were reported at school and was significantly related to greater depressive symptoms and anxiety (psps <.001).
Conclusions
Findings suggest that the perception of racial and ethnic microaggressions is associated with an increased risk of depression and heightened anxiety among nursing students of color. Beyond the immediate negative effects on mental and physical health, these challenges have been linked to lower academic performance and higher dropout rates (e.g., Bruffaerts et al., 2018), which, in turn, can result in serious long-term consequences.
Relationship Between Racial Discrimination, Anxiety and Risk for Depression in Pre-Licensure Nursing Students of Color
