Examining the Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Active Coping in Black Older Adults: A Mixed Methods Study.

Abstract

Purpose: To gain a deeper understanding of Black older adults' (aged ≥65 years) experiences with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), including racism, and their use of active coping throughout their life course.

Method: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 Black older adults followed by administration of the First 18 Years Survey (measuring ACEs) and the John Henryism Active Coping Scale. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic narrative analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative and quantitative data were integrated using a triangulation process.

Results: Four major themes emerged from the qualitative data. Participants reported experiencing pervasive racism throughout their lives. Quantitative results indicated participants experienced fewer ACEs and made high use of active coping. Triangulation indicates qualitative findings and explains the quantitative results.

Conclusion: Although participants faced ACEs including racism, they found strategies to help them actively cope. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, xx(x), xx-xx.].