Depression is the fourth leading cause of disability and the leading cause of non-fatal disease burden in the United States. Several studies have indicated that African Americans are significantly more likely to report depression compared to European Americans. Although the literature has examined cross-racial differences in depressive symptoms, there is limited research investigating within-group differences. One culturally-relevant factor that may impact African Americans’ depressive symptoms is John Henryism , which is a coping style that promotes high active coping and determination in response to stress. To date, several studies have supported John Henryism’s association with poor health outcomes for African Americans; yet, few studies have examined whether John Henryism differentially predicts depressive symptoms for African American men and women. This study examines whether men and women differ in their endorsement of John Henryism, and whether John Henryism serves as a protective or risk factor for depressive symptoms among both African American men and women. Limitations, future directions, and clinical implications are discussed.
