Date of Award

2006

Document Type

Thesis

Publisher

Edith Cowan University

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts Honours

School

School of Psychology

Faculty

Faculty of Computing, Health and Science

First Supervisor

Dr Kevin Runions

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between gender, perceived discrimination, and mental health among young ethnic-minority children. To address this aim, 32 participants (mean age= 10.8 years), with an even sample across gender and cultural backgrounds, were asked questions relating to two types of discrimination (day to day and lifetime experiences) and their' primary caregiver was asked questions relating to child internalising (e.g. anxiety, withdrawal) and externalising (aggression, breaking things) behaviour. Almost all participants reported exposure to at least one type of discrimination. Girls, on average, scored higher on all measures compared to boys. Regression analysis showed higher levels of day to day discrimination were associated with increased internalising and externalising behaviour for boys and girls, although the relationship was stronger for girls. Higher levels of lifetime discrimination were associated with increased internalising behaviour for girls, little variance in externalising behaviour for girls, and decreased externalising and internalising behaviour for boys. Findings partially support those of previous research. Limitations are discussed as well as implications for future research.

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