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Kahhale I, Farrise K, Das A, McPhee J, Galán CA, Park A. Recognizing the Impact of Racism-Based Traumatic Stress on Youth: Implications for Research and Clinical Practice. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:S0890-8567(24)00242-9. [PMID: 38734405 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2024.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaela Farrise
- University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California
| | | | - Jeanne McPhee
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Chardée A Galán
- The Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pennsylvania
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Coates EE, Moore C, de Heer R, Brumley C, Prudhomme A, Edwards L, Curtis L. Black mothers' ethnic-racial socialization one year after highly publicized anti-Black murders during the pandemic. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2024. [PMID: 38655815 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Although research on ethnic-racial socialization is well established, limited studies have examined the influence of specific, highly publicized anti-Black murders. We assessed Black mothers' (N = 12, mean age = 37.45) concerns and ethnic-racial socialization with adolescents aged 11-18 years old approximately 1 year following the murders of George Floyd and other unarmed Black people. Researchers generated the following themes using reflexive thematic analysis: protecting adolescents from physical harm; protecting adolescents from psychological harm; parents' emotional distress; and parents' lack of confidence in their ethnic-racial socialization practices. Black mothers exhibit exceptional amounts of strength and courage as they navigate pervasive physical and psychological threats to their adolescents while experiencing worry and low confidence in their ability to socialize their adolescents about anti-Black racism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica E Coates
- Department of Psychiatry, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Carrington Moore
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Rebecca de Heer
- Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Calyn Brumley
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Arielle Prudhomme
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Lauren Edwards
- School of Medicine, Howard University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Latisha Curtis
- Department of Psychiatry, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Tyrell FA, Wang YS, Eboigbe LI, Skeeter BD. A multisystem model for understanding stress and adaptation in ethnically and racially diverse youth. Dev Psychopathol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38506061 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579424000592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Contemporary biological and contextually based theoretical frameworks have conceptualized how stress exposure may influence adaptation in youth. However, nearly all of this scholarship neglects the role of specific contextual features and/or biological processes that are involved in ethnic-racial minority youth's responses and adaptation to sociocultural stressors. Drawing on the theoretical principles of the developmental psychopathology framework and contemporary models of stress and adaptation, this article proposes a new multisystem model that explains how multiple levels and systems within and outside of individual youth influence their sociocultural adaptation. We provide empirical evidence to support components of this multisystem model. We propose that research based on our new theoretical framework will capture the sociocultural experiences of ethnic-racial minority youth by centering processes that are relevant to their lived experiences, coping, and adjustment. In doing so, this model will inform psychosocial interventions focused on promoting healthy adaptation among ethnic and racial diverse youth. Finally, we offer recommendations to guide future research on stress and adaptation among ethnic and racial diverse youth, in particular, and developmental psychopathology more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanita A Tyrell
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Yuqi S Wang
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Loretta I Eboigbe
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Bailey D Skeeter
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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Wilf S, Reed T, Millet V, Ortiz SM, Wray-Lake L. "We been dying, and you got me on a call helping you stay alive": Black and Latinx youth organizers' experiences of racism in gun violence prevention organizations. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2024; 34:4-20. [PMID: 37795768 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
This study explored Black and Latinx youth organizers' experiences of racism within national gun violence prevention organizing spaces. Interview data were analyzed from 17 Black and/or Latinx youth (Mage = 20.17, 47% women) across the United States who organized against gun violence. The findings identified three forms of racism that Black and Latinx organizers experienced in national organizations: (1) being tokenized for their racial identities and experiences without having real decision making power; (2) feeling a burden to educate their white peers about the structural causes of gun violence and how to improve organizing spaces for other youth of color; and (3) being silenced in their racially conscious organizing efforts to address the structural causes of gun violence in their communities. This research highlights how Black and Latinx youth gun violence prevention organizers contend both with structural racism in their everyday lives and racism in organizing spaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Wilf
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Taylor Reed
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Victoria Millet
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stephanie M Ortiz
- Department of Sociology, University of Massachusetts at Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laura Wray-Lake
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Tinner L, Alonso Curbelo A. Intersectional discrimination and mental health inequalities: a qualitative study of young women's experiences in Scotland. Int J Equity Health 2024; 23:45. [PMID: 38424534 PMCID: PMC10903064 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-024-02133-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2021, Scotland became the first UK country to launch a Women's Health Plan. This policy signals increasing commitment to broader ambitions surrounding gender equality in health. Research shows a connection between discrimination and health, representing a contributor to health inequalities. There remains sparse evidence on how certain groups experience discrimination that could be useful for policymaking. This research set out to address this evidence gap through exploring how discrimination shapes young women's experiences of mental health and inequalities in Scotland. METHODS We interviewed women aged 16-25 years (n=28), living in Scotland, UK, adopting an intersectional approach to recruitment and data analysis. We used a semi-structured topic guide to facilitate open discussion about discrimination and health. Transcripts were analysed by two researchers using Thematic Analysis and NVivo software. FINDINGS We identified three themes that illuminate intersectional discrimination and the impact on mental health. The first outlines how experiences of discrimination in school, work and public spaces (and the anticipation of such) creates stress leading to mental health problems, particularly for participants from ethnic minority groups. The second highlights the lack of support for mental health, both at structural and interpersonal levels, which was viewed by young women as a form of intersectional discrimination, largely because of their gender and age. Finally, we developed a mid-level theory termed the 'chain of dismissal' that displays that for both physical or mental health symptoms, young women's concerns are immediately "written off" as anxiety-related and in turn a natural attribute of young women. These themes show that discrimination has the potential to amplify mental health problems for young women and is a likely contributor to health inequalities. CONCLUSIONS Structural disadvantages such as racism intersect with gender and age to compound the experience of discrimination for marginalised young women. To improve mental health and reduce health inequalities for young women, multi-level approaches are needed, with strong consideration of how the structural and cultural landscape as well as assumptions made by healthcare professionals have critical implications for young women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Tinner
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Ana Alonso Curbelo
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Okoye H, Ojukwu E, Coronel Villalobos M, Saewyc E. Racism as a social determinant of health: Link to school-related psychosocial stressors in a population-based sample of African adolescents in Canada. J Adv Nurs 2023; 79:3498-3512. [PMID: 37070694 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racism is a social determinant of health that links to the health and well-being of racial/ethnic marginalized populations. However, perceived racism among African Canadian adolescents has not been adequately addressed, especially the link between racism and psychosocial stressors in school settings. AIM The aim of the current study was to assess racism and the link to school-related psychosocial stressors in a population-based sample of African Canadian adolescents. DESIGN Secondary analysis of the population-based 2018 British Columbia Adolescent Health Survey dataset. METHODS Logistic regression and generalized linear models tested the link between racism and psychosocial stressors among African Canadian adolescents (n = 942), adjusting for sociodemographic factors. RESULTS/FINDINGS More than 38% of the adolescents reported racism in the year preceding the survey. Regardless of gender and birthplace, and controlling for covariates, those who experienced racism were significantly more likely to report peer victimization, which includes teasing, social exclusion, cyberbullying and sexual harassment, and they felt less safe and connected to their schools compared to those who did not experience racism. With gender and birthplace differences, those who reported racism had higher odds of having been physically assaulted, stayed away from school, reported negative emotional responses and used avoidant behaviours to evade racism. CONCLUSION African Canadian adolescents are a visible racialized ethnic group in British Columbia, who are at heightened risk of racism and the associated psychosocial stressors. IMPACT These findings demonstrate the influences of racism on psychosocial stressors and related emotional responses among African Canadian adolescents. Nurses and other healthcare providers should be cognizant of racism and the psychological impacts when providing care to "at-risk" populations. Promoting positive and inclusive school climates and addressing racism at all levels of the society will foster better social integration, as well as improve the health and academic achievement of African Canadian adolescents. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION We presented the research and preliminary results of the data analysis to the African community (parents and adolescents who self-identify as African). The African community who attended the gathering corroborated the link between racism and health and reiterated that addressing these psychosocial stressors can promote adolescent health and well-being. The attendees accepted all the variables that we included in the analysis. However, they emphasized the need for more African representation among school staff and teachers to foster trust, feelings of safety and connectedness, and to promote African students' academic achievement and well-being. They stressed the need to train and build the capacities of the school staff and teachers so that they can assist students regardless of race. They emphasized the need to promote cultural awareness and cultural sensitivity among all healthcare providers. We included the recommendations in the appropriate sections of the manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Okoye
- Stigma and Resilience among Vulnerable Youth Centre, School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Emmanuela Ojukwu
- Stigma and Resilience among Vulnerable Youth Centre, School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mauricio Coronel Villalobos
- Stigma and Resilience among Vulnerable Youth Centre, School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Saewyc
- Stigma and Resilience among Vulnerable Youth Centre, School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Finding the bright side: Positive online racial experiences, racial identity, and activism for black young adults. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2023.107738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
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Opara I, Lardier DT, Boyd D, Boateng ACO, Brawner BM. The Association Between Racial Attitudes, Alcohol Use and Mood Disorders Among Black Adolescents. JOURNAL OF PREVENTION (2022) 2023; 44:85-104. [PMID: 36156761 PMCID: PMC9892305 DOI: 10.1007/s10935-022-00706-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol is the most widely used substance among adolescents. Although Black adolescents use alcohol at lower rates than White adolescents, Black adolescents tend to have worse outcomes. This includes higher rates of mood disorders and criminal justice involvement associated with alcohol use and misuse compared to any other racial group. Black adolescents are also more likely to experience racial discrimination and be exposed to traumatic events within their communities, which may increase their chances of using substances. Understanding the relationship between racial attitudes (towards one's own group and others) and substance use and mental health can provide unique and meaningful insight into prevention programming for Black adolescents. Yet, these concepts have been understudied. To fill this gap, we examined the association between racial attitudes and alcohol use and mood disorders in Black adolescents in Philadelphia, PA (N = 154). We used the revised Adolescent Survey of Black Life to measure pro-Black (positive attitudes toward being Black and factors related to Black people), anti-White (negative attitudes toward White people due to experiences of racism and discrimination) and racism awareness (recognition of racism) domains. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to test the associations. Results showed that: higher pro-Black attitudes were associated with a lower odds of mood disorder (odds ratio [OR] = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.55, 0.89); and higher racism awareness was associated with an increased odds of alcohol use (OR = 1.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06, 1.29). Findings provide preliminary support for interventions and policies for Black adolescents that bolster positive racial identity and eliminate experiences of racism as alcohol use and mood disorder prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ijeoma Opara
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, USA.
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research On AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, USA.
| | - David T Lardier
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, USA
| | - Donte Boyd
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research On AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, USA
- School of Social Work, Ohio State University, Columbus, USA
| | | | - Bridgette M Brawner
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, USA
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Neblett EW, Neal AJ. Measuring institutional and structural racism in research on adolescence and developmental science. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2022; 32:1280-1284. [PMID: 36519420 PMCID: PMC10108306 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Dismantling racism and oppression in adolescence requires sound measurement and rigorous methods. In this commentary, we discuss the measurement of institutional and structural racism and approaches to operationalizing structures and systems in adolescent research. Drawing on a recent framework for the conceptualization, measurement, and analysis of institutional racism and health (Needham et al., Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, in press), we highlight several considerations for measuring institutional and structural racism. These include definitional issues, the tension between individual- and area-level measures, questions of timing, and matters of design and analysis. We conclude with suggestions to address gaps in existing literature and call for transdisciplinary training, collaboration, and partnership to promote the healthy development of Black and Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) adolescents and young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique W. Neblett
- Department of Health Behavior and Health EducationUniversity of Michigan School of Public HealthAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Aaron J. Neal
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
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10
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Cénat JM, Kouamou LN, Moshirian Farahi SMM, Darius WP, Dalexis RD, Charles M, Kogan CS. Perceived racial discrimination, psychosomatic symptoms, and resilience among Black individuals in Canada: A moderated mediation model. J Psychosom Res 2022; 163:111053. [PMID: 36244137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2022.111053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although no study has explored psychosomatic symptoms in Black communities in Canada, several studies in the United States showed that psychological distress is often express as physical pain among African Americans. Using a cross-sectional design, the present study documents the frequency of psychosomatic symptoms and its association to racial discrimination, and resilience among Black individuals aged 15 to 40 in Canada. METHOD A total of 860 participants (Mage = 25.0 years, SD = 6.3), predominantly born in Canada (79.1%) and women (75.6%), completed the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (somatization subscale), the Everyday Discrimination Scale, and the Resilience Scale-14. RESULTS Findings revealed that 81.7% of participants experienced psychosomatic symptoms, with higher prevalence among women (84.2%) compared to men (70.7%;), ꭓ2 = 21.5, p < .001; participants aged 25 to 40 years old (93.7%) compared to those aged 15-24 years old (75.2%) (ꭓ2 = 45.0, p < .001). Participants reporting greater racial discrimination had more psychosomatic symptoms (89.4%) compared to others (72.9%), ꭓ2 = 39.2, p < .001). A moderated mediation model showed that everyday racial discrimination was positively associated with psychosomatic symptoms (B = 0.1, SE = 0.01, p < .001). The model showed that the association between racial discrimination and psychosomatic symptoms was partially mediated by resilience (B = -0.01, SE = 0.0, p < .01), and negatively moderated by gender (B = -0.04, SE = 0.01, p < .01). In other words, being a woman is associated with higher levels of psychosomatic symptoms among those who have experienced racial discrimination. CONCLUSION By highlighting the association between racial discrimination and psychosomatic symptoms and the role of resilience and gender in this relation, this article reveals important factors to integrate to improve healthcare services, prevention, and interventions among Black individuals with psychosomatic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude Mary Cénat
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Interdisciplinary Centre for Black Health, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; University of Ottawa Research Chair on Black Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | | | - Rose Darly Dalexis
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michée Charles
- Department of Sociology, Université Toulouse Jean Jaurès, Toulouse, France
| | - Cary S Kogan
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Interdisciplinary Centre for Black Health, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Webb L, Jackson DB, Jindal M, Alang S, Mendelson T, Clary LK. Anticipation of Racially Motivated Police Brutality and Youth Mental Health. JOURNAL OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE 2022; 83:101967. [PMID: 38846374 PMCID: PMC11156263 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2022.101967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Purpose Exposure to police brutality is a significant risk to adolescent mental health. This study extends this literature by exploring connections between anticipation of racially motivated police brutality and multiple facets of adolescent mental health. Methods Students ages 14 to 18 (n = 151) were recruited from a study administered in Baltimore City public schools. Between December 2020 and July 2021, participants completed a questionnaire assessing anticipatory stress regarding racially motivated police brutality and current mental health. Regression models examined associations between this anticipatory stress and mental health. Latent profile and regression analyses were used to examine whether anticipatory stress was more salient among adolescents with comorbid mental health symptoms, compared to those without comorbid symptoms. Results Youth with anticipatory stress stemming from both personal and vicarious police brutality had more symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as lower hope, compared to youth without anticipatory stress. The association between anticipatory stress and anxiety was stronger for girls than boys. Conclusions Findings from this study highlight racialized police brutality as a common anticipated stressor among youth, particularly for girls. Findings have implications for policing interventions, including development of additional trainings for police officers and promoting positive police/youth interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Webb
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Dylan B. Jackson
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Monique Jindal
- Academic Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago
| | - Sirry Alang
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Lehigh University
| | - Tamar Mendelson
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Laura K. Clary
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
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12
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Cénat JM. Complex Racial Trauma: Evidence, Theory, Assessment, and Treatment. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2022; 18:675-687. [PMID: 36288462 DOI: 10.1177/17456916221120428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Racial trauma refers to experiences related to threats, prejudices, harm, shame, humiliation, and guilt associated with various types of racial discrimination, either for direct victims or witnesses. In North American, European, and colonial zeitgeist societies, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) experience racial microaggressions and interpersonal, institutional, and systemic racism on a repetitive, constant, inevitable, and cumulative basis. Although complex trauma differs from racial trauma in its origin, the consistency of racist victimization beyond childhood, and the internalized racism associated with it, strong similarities exist. Similar to complex trauma, racial trauma surrounds the victims’ life course and engenders consequences on their physical and mental health, behavior, cognition, relationships with others, self-concept, and social and economic life. There is no way to identify racial trauma other than through a life-course approach that captures the complex nature of individual, collective, historical, and intergenerational experiences of racism experienced by BIPOC communities in Western society. This article presents evidence for complex racial trauma (CoRT), a theoretical framework of CoRT, and guidelines for its assessment and treatment. Avenues for future research, intervention, and training are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude Mary Cénat
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Black Health, University of Ottawa
- University of Ottawa Research on Black Health, University of Ottawa
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Briggs AS, Hope EC, Cryer‐Coupet QR. Patterns of critical consciousness and associations with sociocultural factors in black adolescents. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY & APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/casp.2658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis S. Briggs
- Department of Psychology North Carolina State University Raleigh North Carolina USA
| | - Elan C. Hope
- Department of Psychology North Carolina State University Raleigh North Carolina USA
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14
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Butler-Barnes ST, Leath S, Inniss-Thompson MN, Allen PC, D'Almeida MEDA, Boyd DT. Racial and gender discrimination by teachers: Risks for Black girls' depressive symptomatology and suicidal ideation. CULTURAL DIVERSITY & ETHNIC MINORITY PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 28:469-482. [PMID: 35389693 PMCID: PMC9537365 DOI: 10.1037/cdp0000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present study examines how race and gender-specific factors (i.e., racial centrality and gender role beliefs) serve as protective assets against the harmful impact of racial and gender discrimination on depressive symptomatology and suicidal ideation for Black girls. METHOD Our sample included 232 Black girls ages 15-17 years old (Mage = 16.85) from a socioeconomically diverse community context. RESULTS Our findings revealed that racial and gender discrimination from teachers was associated with higher levels of depressive symptomatology. Perceived gender discrimination by teachers and endorsing traditional gender role beliefs were associated with higher reports of suicidal ideation. Perceiving higher instances of racial discrimination from teachers and reporting lower levels of racial centrality were associated with higher depressive symptomatology. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest the need to create safe spaces and to consider the interactions that occur in school settings that impact the mental health of Black girls. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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15
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Gibson SM, Bouldin BM, Stokes MN, Lozada FT, Hope EC. Cultural Racism and Depression in Black Adolescents: Examining Racial Socialization and Racial Identity as Moderators. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2022; 32:41-48. [PMID: 34874089 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The current study explored parental racial socialization and racial regard as moderators of the effects of cultural racism on depression symptoms among Black adolescents (N = 604, Mage = 15.44). When adolescents reported lower private regard and lower cultural pride messages or higher public regard and lower alertness to discrimination messages, the negative effects of cultural racism on depression symptoms were exacerbated. When adolescents reported higher private regard and more cultural pride messages, the negative effects of cultural racism on depression symptoms were attenuated. Findings suggest that racial messages transmitted to Black adolescents combined with their own racial attitudes can alter the effect of cultural racism on depression symptoms.
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16
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Hope EC, Volpe VV, Briggs AS, Benson GP. Anti-racism activism among Black adolescents and emerging adults: Understanding the roles of racism and anticipatory racism-related stress. Child Dev 2022; 93:717-731. [PMID: 35211959 PMCID: PMC9306571 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This study examines associations between individual racism, anticipatory racism‐related stress, and anti‐racism activism among Black adolescents (n = 443; Mage = 15.6; 57.4% female) and emerging adults (n = 447; Mage = 23.8; 77.6% female). The authors tested competing hypotheses about associations between individual racism and anti‐racism activism on anticipatory racism‐related stress. Findings indicated anticipatory racism‐related stress may be both a catalyst and consequence of engagement in anti‐racism activism for Black adolescents and emerging adults. Results for each age group varied by type of stress (physiological; psychological) and activism (low‐risk; high‐risk). Supporting youth engagement in anti‐racism activism without increasing anticipatory racism‐related stress is a key priority for meaningfully advancing scholarship on the development of anti‐racism and pursuit of racial justice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elan C Hope
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Vanessa V Volpe
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alexis S Briggs
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - G Perusi Benson
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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Thomas MD, Mendez RM, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Sohail S, Chae DH, Márquez-Magaña L, Sellers R, Woods-Giscombé CL, Allen AM. OUP accepted manuscript. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2022; 62:762-772. [PMID: 35084030 PMCID: PMC9154235 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives African American women experience faster telomere shortening (i.e., cellular aging) compared with other racial–gender groups. Prior research demonstrates that race and gender interact to influence culturally specific norms for responding to socially-relevant stress and other stress-coping processes, which may affect healthy aging. Research Design and Methods Data are from African American Women’s Heart & Health Study participants who consented to DNA extraction (n = 140). Superwoman Schema (SWS) was measured using 5 validated subscales: presenting strength, emotion suppression, resisting vulnerability, motivation to succeed, and obligation to help others. Racial identity was measured using 3 subscales from the Multidimensional Inventory of Black Identity: racial centrality, private regard, and public regard. Relative telomere length (rTL) was measured using DNA extracted from blood samples. Path analysis tested associations and interactions between SWS and racial identity dimensions with rTL. Results For SWS, higher resistance to being vulnerable predicted longer telomeres. For racial identity, high private regard predicted longer telomeres while high public regard predicted shorter telomeres. Interactions were found between public regard and 2 SWS dimensions: among women with high public regard, emotion suppression (β = 0.20, p < .05) and motivation to succeed (β = 0.18, p < .05) were associated with longer rTL. The interaction between high centrality and emotion suppression predicted shorter rTL (β = −0.17, p < .05). Discussion and Implications Culturally specific responses to gendered racism and racial identity, developed early in life and shaped over the life course, are important psychosocial determinants of cellular aging among African American women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn D Thomas
- Departments of Epidemiology & Biostatistics and Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Address correspondence to: Marilyn D. Thomas, PhD, MPH, Departments of Epidemiology & Biostatistics and Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Avenue, Box 0852, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA. E-mail:
| | - Rebecca M Mendez
- Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Youchuan Zhang
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Yijie Wang
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Saba Sohail
- Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - David H Chae
- Department of Global Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University, School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | | | - Rob Sellers
- Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Cheryl L Woods-Giscombé
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amani M Allen
- School of Public Health, Divisions of Community Health Sciences and Epidemiology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
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Measuring the biological embedding of racial trauma among Black Americans utilizing the RDoC approach. Dev Psychopathol 2021; 33:1849-1863. [DOI: 10.1017/s0954579421001073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) initiative aims to understand the mechanisms influencing psychopathology through a dimensional approach. Limited research thus far has considered potential racial/ethnic differences in RDoC constructs that are influenced by developmental and contextual processes. A growing body of research has demonstrated that racial trauma is a pervasive chronic stressor that impacts the health of Black Americans across the life course. In this review article, we examine the ways that an RDOC framework could allow us to better understand the biological embedding of racial trauma among Black Americans. We also specifically examine the Negative Valence System domain of RDoC to explore how racial trauma is informed by and can help expand our understanding of this domain. We end the review by providing some additional research considerations and future research directives in the area of racial trauma that build on the RDoC initiative.
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Catlin PA, Van Hecke A. Commentary: Toward Race-Conscious Research: Acknowledging Structural Racism and Its Effect on the Recruitment of Black Adolescents and Caregivers in Clinical Trials. J Pediatr Psychol 2021; 46:621-623. [PMID: 34283891 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsab066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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