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Affectionate relationships with animal companions have health-enhancing effects on people and enrich their quality of life, and the majority of families with companion animals regard their animals as family members. Research has also suggested that these relationships are complicated and vary depending on a number of factors, yet there has been almost no exploration of ethnic diversity in relationships with companion animals. This descriptive study explores the relationships among race and ethnicity, beliefs about companion animals, and ownership practices. Findings indicate that in many instances there were no statistical differences by ethnicity. Nonetheless, describing oneself as white, American Indian, or both was associated with being more likely to have companion animals. Those identifying themselves as of Hispanic or Spanish origin were less likely to have cats and to have their cat or dog spayed or neutered and more likely to say they get a sense of personal safety from their dog or cat. The implications of these findings are discussed, and suggestions for research and practice are offered.

People with mental illnesses (PWMI) who are of color and/or lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) experience mental health disparities, including within mental health treatment programs (MHTPs). Informed by a critical framework with attention to intersectionality and microaggressions, this qualitative study asked 20 PWMI and family members who also are of color and/or LGB whether they had experienced mental illness discrimination in MHTPs, a possible factor in disparities. We also asked participants about aspects of MHTPs that supported recovery. Participants reported that they were ignored/not listened to, not viewed as complex individuals, experienced condescension/lack of respect and violations of privacy or other rights, and were presumed to lack intelligence. In addition, identifying mental illness discrimination was complex due to intersections of identities. Despite these perceptions of discrimination, participants described supportive aspects of MHTPs. Implications for practice and research are offered.

This study uses quantitative and qualitative findings from a mail and online questionnaire to examine the experiences and perspectives of 76 doctoral-degreed social work faculty about the factors that affected their career decisions. The authors discuss similarities and differences between women and men in jobrelated decision making. Respondent perceptions of gender-related barriers and organizational supports when working toward career goals are presented and implications for social work education programs are explored.