Differences Between Blacks and Whites, Women and Men, in Reasons for Living

The authors studied race & gender differences in adaptive, life-maintaining beliefs arguing that if such differences exist, interventions could be tailored to meet the needs of particular populations. 227 undergraduates (62 Black women, 33 Black men, 76 White women, 56 White men), enrolled in psychology courses, completed the Reasons for Living Inventory. Results indicated that Blacks & women endorse stronger reasons for living than do Whites. Additional research is recommended. (17 refs.)