Abstract

Mistrust in the medical field can be generated through experiences of racism and discrimination during interactions with members of the medical community. Black and African American individuals find themselves facing increased rates of morbidity including heart disease, and diabetes, and increased rates of mortality as compared to White individuals yet are treated less frequently and to a lesser extent. This thesis examines the mistrust black people have towards the medical field, as well as differences within the black community in terms of experiences with medical racism. In order to collect this information, I created a survey that enquires about race and ethnicity and the types of encounters that individuals have had with medical professionals. I analyzed the responses and found that a majority of those surveyed believe that medical racism does exist. Although the production of medical mistrust is evident, it is a difficult task to eliminate it. Therefore, this thesis recommends that more emphasis be placed on the sociological aspects of medicine.

Thesis Completion

2021

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Donley, Amy

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Sociology

Degree Program

Medical Sociology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-1-2021

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