Nursing, Black Culture, Public Health
Cultural Determinants of Pain Experience and Suicidality in Black Women: Informing Personalized Pain Interventions and Psychiatric Nursing Care
Oliphant V, Martinez G, Harold C, Broyles D, Williams J, Nabity P, McGeary D, Stensland M
June 26, 2026 at 1:55:52 PM

Abstract
This discussion paper explores the intersection of cultural factors and Black women's experiences with chronic pain and suicidality. Using existing literature, we identified six domains of cultural factors potentially influencing Black women's pain experiences and suicide risk, conceptually organized into culturally specific risk factors (superwoman schema, intersectionality, history of medical mistrust) and protective factors (spirituality, culture, reliance on social support). Drawing on African American Studies, Black Psychology, and Clinical Health Psychology, we provide clear recommendations for culturally tailored interventions that can uniquely address Black women's pain and suicide-related experiences while receiving psychiatric nursing care.
This discussion paper synthesizes existing literature on cultural factors influencing Black women's chronic pain and suicidality, organizing six identified domains into culturally specific risk factors (superwoman schema, intersectionality, medical mistrust) and protective factors (spirituality, culture, social support). Drawing on African American Studies, Black Psychology, and Clinical Health Psychology, the authors offer concrete recommendations for culturally tailored psychiatric nursing care that addresses Black women's pain and suicide-related experiences.
