Evaluating Experiences of Stress and Coping Among African American Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic to Inform Future Interventions

Abstract

Background

African American (AA) women experience disproportionate levels of chronic disease, which is theorized to be driven by greater exposure to acute and chronic stress. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has further exacerbated existing health disparities among AA communities. Understanding how AA women have experienced and responded to stress during the pandemic may help to inform how future interventions can better address physical and mental well-being in AA communities.

Aims

Drawing from stress and coping models and an ecological framework, the present study conducted a theory-based qualitative assessment of stress-related experiences during the pandemic among a cohort of AA women, including (1) sources of stress, (2) coping strategies, (3) perceptions of health-related behaviors, (4) the role of community, and (5) recommendations for future interventions.

Method

After completing a group-based physical activity intervention program during the COVID-19 pandemic, a cohort of AA women (N =17, M_age= 49.3 ± 11.24) completed individual interviews. Sessions were conducted by phone, audiotaped, transcribed, and coded by independent raters (rs = .71–.73). Themes were identified using deductive and inductive approaches.

Results

Among sources of stress directly related to the pandemic, being at home, getting sick, and homeschooling/parenting were the most frequently discussed themes. Participants engaged in active coping (problem and emotion-focused), with health behaviors, social support, and religion/spirituality, emerging as frequently discussed themes. Although some participants reported passive coping strategies (e.g., avoidance), this approach was less pronounced.

Conclusions

These qualitative results are used to guide suggestions for future interventions that jointly address stress and health-related behaviors in order to improve translation of research into practice and policy for future pandemics and disasters.

Keywords

African American women coping COVID-19 pandemic stress

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