Exposure to online racial discrimination, anti-racism, antisocial risk-taking: Associations with college adjustment and health risks among Black and Latine students

J Am Coll Health. 2025 May 17:1-12. doi: 10.1080/07448481.2025.2503831. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study explored profiles of online risk-taking, exposure to online racial discrimination, and their associations with college adjustment and health risks among Black and Latine students.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: A geographically diverse sample of 571 Black (54.1%) and Latine (45.9%) students (39.9% cisgender women; M = 20.38 SD = 1.57) self-reported on positive online risk-taking (anti-racism risk-taking and coping with racism), negative online risk-taking (antisocial behaviors and problematic internet use), online racial discrimination, three domains of college adjustment (educational, relational, and psychological), and health risks.

RESULTS: Four profiles emerged. High and Moderate Risk groups experienced greater discrimination, higher binge drinking, and lower psychological adjustment. The Anti-racism Positive Risk group reported better college adjustment and lower alcohol use, while the Low Risk group showed moderate educational adjustment and low substance use.

CONCLUSIONS: College administrators should address the heterogeneity in online risk-taking and implement culturally sensitive interventions to support students’ well-being.

PMID:40380862 | DOI:10.1080/07448481.2025.2503831