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

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.