Exploring ways black people navigate adversity and psychological distress to survive

This thesis is comprised of three chapters. Chapter one is a thematic synthesis review of 18 research studies and explores how Black Women cope with misogynoir, a particular form of gendered racism unique to Black Women. Three subthemes are identified: (Re)defining and Reclaiming Identity; Withdrawing from the Margins; and Navigating Complexities of Coping. Each of these themes has two associated subthemes. The theoretical implications of these findings are identified alongside important clinical implications for how clinical psychologists can better support Black Women in practice. Directions for further research are also discussed. Chapter two is a quantitative empirical study that explores the relationship between depression and suicidality in Black People in the UK and the role of religiosity and spirituality in this relationship. A moderated mediation model analysis was performed to identify the relationships between depression, perceived burdensomeness, suicide, and religiosity and spirituality. The interactions of these variables are discussed. The findings have implications for clinical practice regarding prevention and early intervention for supporting Black People’s mental health and increasing cultural humility. Future research directions are also discussed. Chapter three is a reflective account that uses the Tree of Life model (Ncube 2006), grounded in narrative therapy principles, to explore the author’s experiences of undertaking this research. In discussing this journey and in keeping with many of the concepts highlighted in previous chapters, this chapter places particular consideration on identity, power, and privilege to reflect on the research process.