Perception of Stigma in Medical Settings During COVID-19: The Role of Sex Differences Among Latinos

Perceived discrimination in medical settings refers to a perceived lack of respect between individuals and their healthcare providers. Among Latinos, such perceived discrimination may prevent the utilization of healthcare services and impact their desire to access healthcare. Additionally, perceived discrimination impacts Latinoï¾’s psychological distress and is typically associated with lower ratings of self-esteem. Studies have found that sex differences may emerge across these behavioral health relationships, as shown in one study where Latino men displayed greater tendencies to seek certain treatment options over Latino women due to Latino womenï¾’s concern over stigmatization. Given these data, Latino males and females may have differing levels of perceived discrimination that may directly impact emotional health outcomes during the current COVID-19 pandemic. The present study hypothesized that sex differences would emerge as an influence in the relationship between perceived discrimination in medical settings and that higher levels of stigma would be evident among Latino males. Among Latinos who report greater perceived discrimination, our study found that Latino males displayed higher levels of fear of COVID-19, anxiety, and depression between the two measured sexes. These findings are in line with prior research that found Latino males showing greater risks of experiencing negative health behaviors as reported perceived discrimination in medical settings increased. Psychoeducation efforts for Latino men regarding coping mechanisms for stress within medical settings and providing additional training for healthcare providers on the adverse effects of discrimination may reduce the negative outcomes of perceived discrimination on Latinosï¾’ mental health.