College - Author 1
College of Liberal Arts
Department - Author 1
Psychology and Child Development Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Psychology
College - Author 2
College of Liberal Arts
Department - Author 2
Psychology and Child Development Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Psychology
College - Author 3
College of Liberal Arts
Department - Author 3
Psychology and Child Development Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Psychology
College - Author 4
College of Liberal Arts
Department - Author 4
Psychology and Child Development Department
Degree - Author 4
BS in Psychology
Date
12-2025
Primary Advisor
Daniel Ramirez, College of Liberal Arts, Psychology and Child Development Department
Abstract/Summary
The United States has a long history of public health inequities which continue to impact individuals based on their varying intersectional identities. These systemic obstacles often impede access to healthcare, comprehensive treatment by physicians, and preventative care, among other factors. Disparities within healthcare consequently result in decreased overall well-being and negative psychological impacts, based on identity. We reviewed a variety of academic peer-reviewed studies, both empirical and systematic, investigating three identity factors: racial and ethnic minorities, socioeconomic status, and cognitive disabilities, and examining how these facets influence a person’s mental state and experience of healthcare. We analyzed each of these identity factors from a psychological lens, while additionally considering how policy and US history have shaped these varying realities. The state of healthcare in the United States is reflective of larger psychological and sociological disparities, with a need for culturally competent care and increased community services.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/psycdsp/59