Understanding the Role of Discrimination in the Experience of Traumatic Stress in Latine

Introduction. Research has found that low provider culture knowledge leads to poor mental health outcomes for Latine clients (Duke et al., 2011). Further, the 2017 APA Multicultural Guidelines emphasize the need for clinicians and researchers to conceptualize clinical and empirical data from a culturally competent lens, especially considering clinician and researcher bias while understanding a psychological phenomenon. Despite this, limited research exists categorizing the unique factors that affect mental health symptoms among Latine living in the United States (U.S.) especially as it pertains to trauma stress and discrimination (Marmot, 2005; Nadal, 2018). As such, the current study used meditational statistical analysis to improve understanding of the unique relationship between microaggression experience, trauma symptoms, and psychological stress in Latine. Method. Data were collected during the spring of 2024 (January to February) through an online platform Qualtrics® where participants were monetarily compensated for their time. The research team recruited 434 participants who self-identified as Latine US residents. Result. The findings demonstrate a significant total effect linking microaggressions to psychological distress. These results suggest the presence of a meditational relationship. The significant mediation effect of trauma suggests that past experiences of trauma may exacerbate the negative impact of microaggressions on psychological well-being in Latine. Conclusion. This study sheds light on the significant impact of racial microaggressions on the mental health of Latine, highlighting the interconnectedness of experiences of microaggressions, trauma stress, and psychosocial distress. The findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive interventions aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by Latine individuals.