In this paper we explore whether increasing individuals' activation (self-management) levels could hold potential for reducing racial and ethnic disparities in health. A causal model is posited that assumes that social-environmental factors influence activation levels, which in turn influence health outcomes. Relationships are examined separately for whites and African Americans, and findings are supportive of the model for both groups. Simulations of what would happen to outcomes if there were racial parity in activation predict a narrowing of the racial gap in health and behavior. The findings suggest that a focus on increasing activation holds potential for addressing racial and ethnic disparities in health.

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ethnic disparities health gap parity individuals activation selfmanagement behavior socialenvironmental factors

Judith H, Hibbard Jessica, Greene Edmund R, Becker Douglas, Roblin Michael W, Painter Debra J, Perez Edith, Burbank-Schmitt Martin, Tusler,.Racial/ethnic disparities and consumer activation in health.. 27 (5),1442-53.

Judith H, Hibbard Jessica, Greene Edmund R, Becker Douglas, Roblin Michael W, Painter Debra J, Perez Edith, Burbank-Schmitt Martin, Tusler,"Racial/ethnic disparities and consumer activation in health." 27

Judith H, Hibbard Jessica, Greene Edmund R, Becker Douglas, Roblin Michael W, Painter Debra J, Perez Edith, Burbank-Schmitt Martin, Tusler,"Racial/ethnic disparities and consumer activation in health."