Classes of Racism and Suicide Risk Among Black Emerging Adults

This cross-sectional study investigates the relationship between three distinct types of racism-based experiences (i.e. hostile, aversive-hostile, and avoidant) and suicide risk among Black emerging adults. Computer assisted surveys were administered to a sample of 300 Black emerging adult college students. Increased exposure to hostile racism was linked to higher risk of suicidal ideation and attempts, whereas an increase in exposure to aversive-hostile racism was associated with a decreased likelihood of experiencing suicidal ideation. These findings underscore the complex and multifaceted nature of the relationship between racism-based experiences and suicide risk for Black emerging adults. Implications for research, practice, and policy are discussed.