Exploring Barriers and Facilitators to Engagement in a Culturally Adapted, Trauma-Informed Mental Health Intervention Among Black/African American Youth in metro Atlanta Restricted; Files & ToC
Calloway, Ariana (Spring 2024)
Abstract
Numerous studies indicate that Black individuals are disproportionately affected by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), with heightened symptoms of posttraumatic stress and increased suicide attempts. Racial trauma and chronic stress, which are examples of ACEs, are linked to various emotional, social, and physical health issues. However, a substantial portion of affected individuals do not receive treatment. These data suggest a need for culturally and contextually relevant engagement strategies to encourage youth to seek treatment to prevent current and future adverse health outcomes. This study explores the barriers and facilitators to engagement in a culturally adapted, trauma-informed mental health intervention among Black/African American youth in metro Atlanta. The study examines how the barriers and facilitators to engagement identified differ by gender. This secondary qualitative analysis draws on data collected from 19 semi-structured interviews conducted with Black/African American adolescents who participated in the HEART intervention and met the following eligibility criteria: 1) Identify as Black or African American; 2) between the ages of 12 and 18 years; 3) completed at least 50% of the HEART sessions and 4) completed a post-intervention survey and interview. Data analysis followed a thematic analysis approach. Transcripts were coded using deductive and inductive codes. Emergent themes were identified and organized into facilitators and barriers.
There were no differences in identified intervention facilitators or barriers between genders. Several facilitators of engagement were identified, including connection, safe space, relatability, and referrals. Participants expressed a strong desire for connection with peers and facilitators of the intervention, emphasizing the importance of community and shared understanding. The creation of safe spaces free from judgment was pivotal in fostering trust, vulnerability, and emotional well-being among participants. Additionally, participants valued the relatability of the intervention’s focus on young Black/African American individuals, as it validated their experiences and addressed mental health concerns within a culturally relevant framework. Referrals from trusted sources, such as friends, school counselors, or family members, also played a significant role in participants’ decision to join the intervention. Two barriers to engagement were identified, including scheduling conflicts and transportation issues. Participants were often involved in other commitments, such as extracurricular activities, leading to missed opportunities for engagement. Transportation challenges, including reliance on school bus services or guardian transportation, further hindered participants’ ability to attend sessions consistently. This secondary qualitative analysis offers valuable insights into the factors influencing participation in a mental health intervention for Black and African American youth in metro Atlanta. By highlighting the intricate dynamics of structural, social, and individual influences on engagements, the study emphasizes the critical need to prioritize the perspectives and experiences of marginalized communities in mental health research and intervention initiatives to develop more equitable and inclusive approaches to addressing mental health inequities.
Table of Contents
This table of contents is under embargo until 20 May 2026
About this Master's Thesis
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