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Article
Multiple Roles, Multiple Lives: The Protective Effects of Role Responsibilities on the Health Functioning of African American Mothers
Women and Health
  • Angela Rose Black, University of Illinois at Chicago
  • Velma McBride Murry, Vanderbilt University
  • Carolyn E. Cutrona, Iowa State University
  • Yi-fu Chen, University of Georgia
Document Type
Article
Publication Version
Accepted Manuscript
Publication Date
1-1-2009
DOI
10.1080/03630240902915051
Abstract

Using data from 747 rural African American mothers, this study incorporated role accumulation theory to test direct and indirect effects of stressors, coping behaviors, and role responsibilities on health functioning. Results indicated that demands emerging from financial strain were related to compromised mental health and decreases in mothers' use of effective coping strategies and role responsibility engagement. Conversely, mothers who effectively responded to stressors and fulfilled responsibilities to their children and communities experienced enhanced mental health, which in turn promoted optimal physical health. The results can inform research and intervention with African American women.

Comments

This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in Women & Health (2009), available online at DOI:10.1080/03630240902915051. Posted with permission.

Copyright Owner
Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
Language
en
File Format
application/pdf
Citation Information
Angela Rose Black, Velma McBride Murry, Carolyn E. Cutrona and Yi-fu Chen. "Multiple Roles, Multiple Lives: The Protective Effects of Role Responsibilities on the Health Functioning of African American Mothers" Women and Health Vol. 49 Iss. 2-3 (2009) p. 144 - 163
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/carolyn_cutrona/36/