Working shifts: Perceptions of African American community members and shift workers

This research study examined African American shift workers, family and friends of African American shift workers, and African American community members' perceptions of shift work. In order to gain a clearer understanding of African Americans' perceptions of shift work, focus groups were conducted. By taking a qualitative approach and examining the views held by African American shift workers, friends and family members of African American shift workers, and African American community members the researcher was able to get a clearer picture of how shift work impacts the African American shift workers' mental and physical health, family life, and community involvement. Findings indicate that there are many similarities between African American shift workers and members from the majority culture, in that, the problems associated with working shifts are substantial enough to overwhelm any family regardless of culture. The strengths that exist in the African American community do not buffer against all of the negative effects of shift work. Findings also indicate that solutions to help African American shift workers cope with the effects of shift work goes beyond cultural to public policy and employer practices.