International Journal of Education and Social Science (IJESS)

This study examines sociocultural predictors of mental health disparities among older, African American Women. The current study investigated how the sociocultural factors of ethnicity, mental health beliefs, ethnic identity, age, spirituality, and religiosity predicted utilization of formal and informal mental health treatment services. Furthermore, this study discusses the existing literature regarding theories, risk and protective factors, and relevant prevention and intervention responses in relation to depression among older African American women. Although there is an abundance of research on depression, most of the research study literature tends to relate to other cultures. Subsequently, the relevant literature shows there is a limited amount of information focusing on older African American women and their experiences with depression. The current study suggests that attitudes and beliefs about mental illness and health practices is a factor that should been considered by clinicians when assessing, diagnosing, treating and trying to maintain adherence to services of older African American Women.