Date of Award

Fall 9-5-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Zoe Smith

Second Advisor

Byron Brooks

Abstract

Coping is an important behavioral skillset that youth use to emotionally regulate after experiencing stress or trauma. Research has repeatedly highlighted the stressors that Black youth experience, often finding that Black youth face higher levels of stress and trauma than their White peers. However, there has been a lack of research in understanding how Black youth cope with these higher levels of stress. This systematic review includes 72 studies (N = 16,205 participants) examining the frequency and effectiveness of coping strategies used by Black youth in response to a trauma or stressor, along with the associations between utilized coping strategies and various functional outcomes. Although previous reviews categorized coping strategies into domains, factors, and specific strategies, this framework does not accurately reflect the complex coping methods Black youth develop in response to the complex challenges stemming from capitalism and anti-Black systemic oppression. Findings indicate that, broadly, Black youth employ adaptive coping strategies; however, they also utilize complex, situation-specific strategies that best fit their unique experiences, with results showing adaptive and maladaptive strategies being associated with a mix of positive and negative outcomes. Finally, we critique the limitations of current coping research involving Black youth and suggest a research agenda for future studies to develop interventions that genuinely reflect and support their needs.

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