A long-term study observes that a human social group consistently subjected to ostracism and low social regard exhibits significantly higher rates of stress-related illnesses (like hypertension and weakened immune function) compared to the dominant social group, even when access to healthcare and nutrition are similar. Drawing on principles observed in animal studies concerning social rank, analyze the most likely physiological mechanism that explains this health disparity.

Social Experience and Health Outcomes

Findings from primate studies on social hierarchy and stress offer a biological model for understanding human health disparities. This research suggests that the chronic stress experienced by people who are stigmatized or ostracized can lead to similarly negative health outcomes.

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Extensive research on non-human primates has demonstrated a strong correlation between an individual's position in the social hierarchy and its health. An animal's rank can predict its levels of stress, its mental health status, and its vulnerability to disease.

Social Hierarchy's Impact on Stress and Health in Primates

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

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