Psychology of Violence, Vol 15(3), May 2025, 295-304; doi:10.1037/vio0000588
Objective: This exploratory cross-sectional study aimed to (a) determine the prevalence and the reasons for discrimination in Portugal, (b) identify mental health adjustment profiles in the face of perceived discrimination, and (c) compare the profiles according to sociodemographic data and discrimination-specific variables (e.g., number of reasons for discrimination). Method: A representative sample of 1,137 Portuguese adults completed a survey between September 30 and October 21, 2022. Following a person-centered approach to resilience, we measured perceived discrimination and mental health as risk and adaptation indicators, respectively. Results: Descriptive analyses showed that nearly seven out of 10 people experienced at least one form of discrimination a few times a year or more frequently. The main reasons for these episodes were income, age, and educational level. The cluster analysis revealed four mental health adjustment profiles: least challenged (39.4%), indeterminately distressed (32.4%), resilient (18.3%), and at risk (9.9%). Participants with lower levels of mental health and higher levels of discrimination were those from a lower standard of living situation, immigrants, sexual and gender minorities, younger generations, caregivers, and individuals discriminated against for multiple reasons and forms. Conclusions: Policymakers should prioritize antidiscrimination policies that reduce social exclusion and discrimination. Culturally competent mental health interventions should be developed to address the specific needs of people in vulnerable situations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)