ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the potential adverse effects of discrimination on self-control—the ability to inhibit automatic responses, override impulses to pursue long-term goals, and control our emotions, thoughts, and behavior. It examines the potential role of the disruption of self-control as a consequence of contending with discrimination in shaping psychological and physical health. The chapter summarizes research that provides evidence consistent with this cognitive pathway through which discrimination undermines health and well-being. In addition to having direct negative effects on psychological and physiological well-being, research suggests that discrimination can have an adverse impact on individuals’ cognitive well-being. In addition, group-based discrimination can affect mental and physical health indirectly by disrupting individuals’ engagement in self-control, which, in turn, promotes unhealthy decision-making. The chapter highlights the need for additional research that examines whether the negative impact of discrimination on self-control is one pathway leading to behaviors that contribute to health disparities.
