Abstract

Substantial research evidence suggests that racial and ethnic minority groups living in America do not have the same access and opportunities for maximized health as their white counterparts. Factors of the environment, termed social determinates of health, explain this phenomenon. There are five social determinates of health which are influenced by racism: education, economic stability, neighborhood and built environment, health and healthcare, and social and community context. Research has been conducted in various populations on how the relationship between racism and the five social determinants of health negatively affect the health of individuals. However, little research has been conducted in college populations on this topic. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a relationship between racism and the environment that affects the personal health of college students and if so, to compare the results to existing studies and literature. The participants were given a brief survey with questions pertaining to race/ethnicity, the five social determinants of health, and racism. The results of this study show there is a relationship between racism and the environment that affects the personal health of college students and there are significant similarities between these results and the results of existing studies. The results of this study are likely to contribute to the need to reduce the health disparities gap and improve health equity in America through policy making.

Semester/Year of Award

Fall 12-10-2018

Mentor

Michelyn W. Bhandari

Mentor Professional Affiliation

Health Promotion and Administration

Access Options

Open Access Thesis

Document Type

Bachelor Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelor's

Department

Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Department Name when Degree Awarded

Occupational Therapy

IRB Approval Number (if applicable)

1852

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