An investigation of a causal model of depression in Black single mothers

he purpose of this study was to develop and test a theory of depression via causal modeling. The apriori over-identified causal model included the exogenous variables of perceived racism and perceived stress and the endogenous variables of anger, self-esteem, and depression. This research also tested the direct and indirect effects of ten hypothesized relationships according to the pattern of causation specified in the model. The final sample consisted of 208 Black single mothers aged 18 to 45, who met the inclusion/exclusion criteria for the study. The participants responded to the Centers for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Spielberger State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory, the Perceived Ethnic Discrimination Questionnaire Community Version Brief and the Perceived Stress Scale. The over-identified recursive causal model was tested using the LISREL 9.1 computer program. Maximum likelihood chi-square estimation was used to determine the overall fit of the model with the data, along with a variety of fit indices. Beta and gamma path coefficients were examined for their direct and indirect effects for ten hypothesized relationships. The findings indicated that there was an excellent fit of the hypothesized model with the data (X2(1, N = 208) = .05, p = .82). The chi-square was not statistically significant and the probability was large. The fit indices for the model were excellent. Beta and Gamma path coefficients were statistically significant for 9 out of 10 hypothesized relationships within the model (p .05). Based on the chi-square, probability level, and the fit indices, there was an excellent fit of the model with the data; there were no specification errors in the model. The relationships of perceived stress, perceived racism, self-esteem, and anger to depression, according to the pattern of causation specified in the model, provide an excellent explanation of depression in Black single mothers. There is no direct causal link between self-esteem and depression in the model.Ph. D.Includes bibliographical referencesIncludes vitaby Rahshida Atkin

University–Community Partnerships Using a Participatory Action Research Model to Evaluate the Impact of Dance for Health

Little is known about fostering sustainable, collaborative community-academic partnerships that effectively improve physical activity and health in residents of under resourced communities using Participatory Action Research (PAR) driven models. The purpose of this PAR study was to evaluate the impact of an urban, intergenerational, and physical activity dance program by identifying community preferred measurable outcomes that promote program participation and sustainability. A descriptive, qualitative design was employed using semi-structured interview guides to facilitate discussions for two adult focus groups and one youth focus group. Exactly 19 community-residing adults and six youth who lived in urban neighborhoods in West Philadelphia participated in the discussions. The audiotapes were transcribed and analyzed using directed content analysis. Five outcome themes emerged and included: (1). Enhancing the psychological and emotional well-being of the individual, (2). Enhancement of social well-being and management of interpersonal relationships and responsibilities (3). Enhancing and promoting physiologic well-being (4). Changes in health promoting behaviors and skill acquisition, and (5). Concerns about accessibility of dance for health and other physical activity programs in the community. Focused attention to measuring community preferred outcomes can promote sustainability of Dance for Health and possibly other urban-based physical activity dance programs