The Impact of Policing on the Mental Health of Black Communities

Aug 25, 2026

Black individuals in the United States disproportionately experience police violence, resulting in substantial psychological distress such as anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder for many. Adverse mental health outcomes in Black communities linked to policing practices are intensified by systemic racism and structural violence. This qualitative study explored how members of Black communities perceive the psychological effects of policing on their lives. Using a phenomenological approach grounded in critical race theory, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 Black men and women who reported policing experiences affecting their mental health. Analysis produced five themes: fear and mistrust, perceptions of discrimination, mental health impact, desire for police reform, and community support and resources.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages129

Reading Time5 h 25 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Background and purpose

Methods and participants

Key findings/themes

Implications

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection 5-21-2026 The Impact of Policing on the Mental Health of Black Communities Roishetta Sibley Ozane Walden University Follow this and additional works at: [https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations](https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations) Part of the Philosophy Commons This Dissertation is brought to you for free and open access by the Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection at ScholarWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies by an authorized administrator of ScholarWorks. For more information, [please contact](please contact ScholarWorks@waldenu.edu)[ ScholarWorks@waldenu.edu](please contact ScholarWorks@waldenu.edu). Walden University College of Psychology and Community Services This is to certify that the doctoral dissertation by Roishetta Sibley Ozane has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects, and that any and all revisions required by the review committee have been made. Review Committee Dr. Tony Gaskew, Committee Chairperson, Criminal Justice Faculty Dr. Clarence Williamson, Committee Member, Criminal Justice Faculty Chief Academic Officer and Provost Sue Subocz, Ph.D. Walden University 2026 Abstract The Impact of Policing on the Mental Health of Black Communities by Roishetta Sibley Ozane MA, McNeese State University, 2023 BS, McNeese State University, 2021 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Criminal Justice Walden University May 2026 Abstract Black individuals in the United States disproportionately experience police violence, leading to significant psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder for many. The adverse mental health outcomes in Black communities stemming from policing practices and the experiences of police violence are exacerbated by systemic racism and structural violence. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the perceptions of Black community members regarding the psychological impact of policing on their lives. The broader aim of this study, which involved a phenomenological approach and was grounded in critical race theory, was to capture the nuanced experiences of individuals affected by policing practices, thereby uncovering actionable strategies to address mental health disparities. Semi structured interviews were conducted with 10 Black men and women who had reported experiencing policing practices that affected their mental health. Data analysis yielded five themes: fear and mistrust, perceptions of discrimination, impact on mental health, desire for police reform, and community support and resources. The findings offer insights into the relationship between policing practices and mental health outcomes among Black individuals. This interdisciplinary approach, which integrates perspectives from public health, sociology, and criminal justice, may foster dialogue on the urgent need for systemic changes in policing and mental health services in the United States. Ultimately, this research may provide empirical evidence that informs strategies for enhancing mental health support and promoting social justice within marginalized communities, thereby addressing the root causes of trauma and mental health disparities. The Impact of Policing on the Mental Health of Black Communities by Roishetta Sibley Ozane MA, McNeese State University, 2023 BS, McNeese State University, 2021 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Criminal Justice Walden University May 2026 Dedication To my six beautiful children—Kea, Kris, Keelan, Kami, Kamea, and Kash—whose laughter and spirit have been my guiding light throughout this journey. To Keelan, who left us too soon in Decem

FAQs

What problem does the dissertation examine?

It examines how policing practices and police violence affect the mental health of Black individuals and communities in the United States.

What research method and theoretical grounding were used?

The study used a qualitative phenomenological approach grounded in critical race theory, informed by participants’ lived experiences.

How were participants selected and how many were interviewed?

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 Black men and women who had reported policing practices affecting their mental health.

What were the main themes from the data analysis?

The findings included five themes: fear and mistrust, perceptions of discrimination, impact on mental health, desire for police reform, and community support and resources.

Aug 25, 2026

Upload by วิน