The Effects of Discrimination and Psychological Distress on U.S. Latino/a Young Adults’ Relational Uncertainty and Relationship Instability

Matthew A. Ogan, J. Kale Monk, Sarah Killoren, Avelina Rivero, Colleen Colaner, Fiorella L.Carlos Chavez

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: Racial/ethnic discrimination is a common and salient stressor for many individuals. Although discrimination can impair personal and relational well-being, little is known about its influences on the process of considering dissolution (i.e., relationship instability). In two studies of Latino/a young adults, we examined associations among discrimination, psychological distress, relational uncertainty, and relationship instability. Method: Study 1 assessed self-reports of 475 participants aged 18–29 (60.2% female, Mage = 24.8, SD = 3.22). Study 2 examined self-reports of 462 participants aged 18–29 (40.9% female, Mage = 25.9, SD = 2.72). Structural equation models evaluated direct and indirect associations among study variables. Results: Discrimination was associated with relationship instability, both directly and indirectly via its associations with psychological distress and, in Study 1, relational uncertainty. Conclusions: Overall results suggest that racial/ethnic discrimination is associated with romantic relationship instability through its associations with psychological distress and uncertainty about the future of a relationship. Prior research demonstrates the resilience of Latino/a communities, and our findings reinforce the need for policies and clinical resources that reduce discrimination and support mental health and relationships.

Original languageEnglish (US)
JournalCultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology
DOIs
StateAccepted/In press - 2022

Keywords

  • Discrimination
  • Latino/latina/ latinx
  • Mental health
  • Relational uncertainty
  • Relationship instability

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Sociology and Political Science

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The Effects of Discrimination and Psychological Distress on U.S. Latino/a Young Adults’ Relational Uncertainty and Relationship Instability'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this