Race Differences in Personality and Affect Between Older White and Black Patients: an Exploratory Study

Abstract

There is limited research focusing on the five-factor model (FFM) of personality among diverse older adults, particularly cancer patient populations. This study aimed to examine the association of personality traits, positive and negative affect, and health in White and Black older adults receiving outpatient treatment for various cancer types. Data were collected from 150 patients (123 White and 27 Black patients), with a mean age of 65.38 years (SD = 7.72). Participants were surveyed on personality traits, affect, physical and mental functioning, and demographic characteristics. Analyses showed no significant race differences in the FFM of personality. However, Black patients reported significantly higher positive affect than White patients. Results further indicated that higher positive affect and lower negative affect were significant predictors of higher mental functioning for White patients. Neuroticism predicted worse mental functioning (lower vitality, social functioning, emotions, and mental health) in Black patients but not for the White patients. These findings suggest associations among identified sociocultural factors, personality, affect, and health. These characteristics may ultimately influence health outcomes and symptom management across various patient populations.