Date of Graduation
Summer 8-31-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
Department
Psychology
Program
Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
First Advisor
Dr. Conor Smith
Second Advisor
Dr. Alvin McLean
Third Advisor
Dr. Darlene Townes
Abstract
This dissertation explores the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), racism, health habits, and therapy engagement on cardiovascular disease (CVD) among Black adults. This study builds on the Biopsychosocial Model and Allostatic Load Theory to examine how trauma, racism, and health habits influence cardiovascular health outcomes in the African American population. Through a quantitative analysis, this study investigates whether ACEs, experiences of racism, engagement in health habits, and participation in therapy contribute to the development or mitigation of CVD in Black adults. A total of 83 participants were included in the study, with data collected on ACEs, the frequency of racial discrimination, health behaviors, and therapeutic interventions. Due to the exclusion criteria, the ACE analysis involved 28 total participants. The findings revealed no significant associations between ACE scores, experiences of racism, or therapy engagement with CVD. However, this research demonstrates the importance of further research to explore these factors, particularly in larger, longitudinal studies that account for protective factors, health measures, and the unique experiences of Black individuals in cardiovascular health research.
Recommended Citation
Nobles, T. C. (2025). Contributions of Adverse Childhood Experiences, Racism, Therapy and Health Habits to Cardiovascular Health in African American Adults. Retrieved from https://repository.usfca.edu/diss/723
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Community Psychology Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Multicultural Psychology Commons
