The purpose of this study is to examine the social and communicative barriers LGBTQIA+ students face when seeking healthcare at campus health and counseling services at Arizona State University. Social barriers relate to experiences and internalizations of societal stigma experienced by sexual and gender minority individuals as well as the…
The purpose of this study is to examine the social and communicative barriers LGBTQIA+ students face when seeking healthcare at campus health and counseling services at Arizona State University. Social barriers relate to experiences and internalizations of societal stigma experienced by sexual and gender minority individuals as well as the anticipation of such events. Communication between patient and provider was assessed as a potential barrier with respect to perceived provider LGBTQIA+ competency. This study applies the minority stress model, considering experiences of everyday stigma and minority stress as a predictor of healthcare utilization among sexual and gender minority students. The findings suggest a small but substantial correlation between minority stress and healthcare use with 23.7% of respondents delaying or not receiving one or more types of care due to fear of stigma or discrimination. Additionally, communication findings indicate a lack of standardization of LGBTQIA+ competent care with experiences varying greatly between respondents.
This research examines the role of historically Black Greek-lettered fraternities and their impact on Black men's mental health. The evolution of historically Black Greek-lettered fraternities illuminates Black men's historical and contemporary struggles in America. Since 1906, African American fraternities in the “Divine Nine'' have existed. The Divine Nine is a…
This research examines the role of historically Black Greek-lettered fraternities and their impact on Black men's mental health. The evolution of historically Black Greek-lettered fraternities illuminates Black men's historical and contemporary struggles in America. Since 1906, African American fraternities in the “Divine Nine'' have existed. The Divine Nine is a colloquial term to refer to all nine fraternities and sororities that are a part of the National Panhellenic Council (NPHC). For over a century, these organizations have continued to create programs that support Black male success and achievement. Behavioral health also has been supported due to their organization's influence on forming Black men's identity, values, and wellness.
The purpose of this thesis is to reveal how Black Greek-lettered fraternities have supported the maintenance of Black men's mental health. By examining concepts and events in the past centuries, this thesis will explore the role of Black fraternities in the Black male community. First, I will share my African-American fraternity experience to help enlighten readers on my inspiration for this research topic. Second, there will be a historical overview of the conditions that created the urgency for historically Black fraternities to exist. Third, I will explore the context of Black fraternities and sororities in American society, emphasizing the history, contributions, and impact of the specific five Black Greek-lettered fraternities in the NPHC. I will share differing perspectives on fraternity activities and rituals that point to productive ways of supporting Black men’s mental health. For example, I will emphasize the international and collegiate perspective of the historically Black fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated.
I conclude the thesis with a summary of the overall contributions of Black fraternities and their impact on Black men's mental health. This thesis proposes that throughout time, Black Greek-lettered fraternities have positively impacted Black men's mental health by providing support networks, community, and a sense of belonging.
