Does masculinity negatively impact health outcomes in African American men?

摘要

While the research literature offers potential solutions to inequalities, the harsh realization is that the 21st century has begun and the historical landscape reflects that in minority populations their health future will mirror the past unless something or someone presents empirical results, capable of equalizing the dissemination of health care resources. While the equity curriculum deserves more prominent attention my research emphasis focused on a smaller segment of the concern, that of men's health.This research design was patterned after established research protocols (Williams, 1997 AHRQ, 2008) using model modifications in an attempt to defend the research hypothesis. Using their empirical results as my theoretical guide, I examined the postulated surface variable masculinity to determine if there exists a moderating affect on health outcomes. I surveyed one hundred and twenty four young affluent African American males, ages 18-64 years of age. My research hypothesis stated that masculinity moderated the relationship between a) African American males and health outcomes and b) the relationship between African American males and health outcomes is affected by socioeconomic status (SES) of black males, and c) patient-centered care (PCC) acting as a mediator of masculinity affects health outcomes in African American males. The study revealed that if you are a young affluent African American males with a higher SES you self-report your health status as good to excellent. These findings supported the theory that among survey respondents who were more masculine, these men received increased PCC. While research studies focusing on health status determinants have been undertaken in the past, this study with its unique study participants offers exciting new possibilities for literature growth.