Direct and moderating effects of community context on the psychological well-being of African American women

The effects of community characteristics on well-being were examined among 709 African American women. Direct and moderating effects of neighborhood c haracteristics on distress were tested. Aggregate-level ratings of neighbor hood cohesion and disorder were significantly related to distress, although the relation between cohesion and distress became nonsignificant when indi vidual risk factors were statistically controlled. Aggregate-level neighbor hood variables interacted significantly with individual risk and resource v ariables in the prediction of distress, consistent with trait-situation int eraction theories (D. Magnusson & N. S. Endler, 1977). Community cohesion i ntensified the benefits of a positive life outlook. Community disorder inte nsified both the benefits of personal resources and the detrimental effects of personal risk factors. Results showed evidence of resilience among Afri can American women.