Beyond the axes of inequality: Religion, race, and everything in between.

Abstract

This study examined the mental health outcomes of a diverse group of 549 individuals experiencing discrimination based on their multiple subordinate identities: ethnicity/race, religion, nativity, and sexual orientation. Applying an intersectionality framework, the findings provide an understanding of the impact of discrimination and racism on minority groups’ mental health within the heterosexual and Lesbian, Gay, bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) context. Significant differences were found on levels of discrimination and racism across ethnic, racial, sexual, and gender minority groups, particularly among Muslim/Jewish, Arab/African, male, and foreign-born participants. Results suggest that subordinate identities and statuses shape the racism and discrimination experiences of the participants. The paper concludes with a discussion of practice and policy implications. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved) Public Policy Relevance Statement—Studies examining the impact of discrimination and racism on the well-being of individuals with subordinated identities, like race/ethnicity and sexual identification suggest that people with multiple subordinated social identities are at higher risk for depression. However, there is a paucity of research examining the impact of religion and immigration status on mental health. Policymakers are urged to adopt intersectional approaches to deconstruct the hierarchies of power and identify the different forms of discrimination when designing new policies to promote equality and equity. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)