ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: We assessed the impact of bearing multiple marginalized identities, experiencing discrimination and perceived social status on the prevalence of depression in college students using an intersectional approach. PARTICIPANTS: Public health students at a diverse urban public university in Northern California (N = 338, response rate = 85%; 77% women, mean age 22). METHODS: We used a cross-sectional survey to assess demographics, depression, discrimination and social standing using validated scales and estimate the relations between depression and co-factors. RESULTS: 25.4% of students reported depression. Discrimination was associated with a higher level of depression and more severe symptoms. Higher perceived social status was associated with a lower level of depression and less severe symptoms. Hispanic/Latinx first generation women had three times the prevalence of depression as non-Hispanic/Latinx non-first generation men and there was a significant disparity in depression severity. CONCLUSIONS: Intersectional approaches can shed light on the experiences of marginalized groups.
