John Henryism and self-reported physical health among high-socioeconomic status African American men

Am J Public Health. 2004 May;94(5):737-8. doi: 10.2105/ajph.94.5.737.

Abstract

We performed a cross-sectional survey of high-socioeconomic status (SES) African American men and their health to examine the relationship between John Henryism (the strong behavioral predisposition to directly confront barriers to upward social mobility) and self-reported physical health status. We found a positive association between John Henryism and better physical health among high-SES African American men. The study of social and behavioral implications of health of men of differing SES is required to develop strategies to improve the health of African American men.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Black People
  • Black or African American / psychology*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Educational Status
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Income
  • Least-Squares Analysis
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Midwestern United States
  • Self Disclosure
  • Social Class*