Abstract:

There exists an extensive body of research to support the theory that racial discrimination affects the development of children from as early as three years of age, and continues to severely impede gains in cognitive and social-emotional development throughout adolescence, and ultimately, the lifespan. Evidence supports the theory that children develop an awareness of racial differences and learn to discriminate during the early childhood years, a critical period in which such stressors as discrimination can prove detrimental to long-term well-being due to its effect on brain development and neural connections. Myriad studies have deduced that as children in the middle childhood stage (6 – 12 years) and adolescence begin to perceive racial discrimination, they can experience such consequent effects as self-consciousness, depression, and the development of low self-esteem. This is especially so if they perceive their race negatively as the result of stereotyping. Studies show that racial bias can negatively affect the ways in which youth respond to various situations and daily tasks – ranging from social interaction with their peers and figures of authority (such as caregivers and teachers) to academic performance. For example, McKown (2009) found that between the ages of 5 and 11, children begin to discern racial stereotypes, and become aware that many individuals support these stereotypes – including those about the academic ability of certain racial groups. Consequently, this may result in said children believing the stereotypes themselves, which in turn, can impede academic success (i.e. self-fulfilling prophecy), and possibly lead to deviant behavior in subsequent years of life. The consistent results of countless studies imply a need for change in educational policies and highlight the importance of comprehensive programs designed to address this critical social issue.

This presentation will address the far-reaching impact of racial discrimination on children ranging in age from early childhood through adolescence, with specific emphasis placed on its effect on brain development, academic achievement, mental and emotional health, and socialization of school-aged, middle-school and high school students. The effects of children experiencing racial discrimination from their peers and/or the figures of authority in their lives (e.g. caregivers, teachers, etc.) can lead to behavioral problems that stem from low self-esteem/self-worth, depression, anger, sadness, etc. Moreover, if children begin to deem negative stereotypes concerning the race with which they identify as valid – especially those linked to intellect and ability – a self-fulfilling prophesy may result (i.e. Children may believe that they are incapable of grasping various learning concepts, thus becoming easily frustrated, giving up, etc.). With an abundance of research supporting the aforementioned, there is a need for change in educational policies in elementary, middle and high schools nation-wide, as well as comprehensive programs developed to address the magnitude and far-reaching effects of this growing problem. The presentation will also consist of a discussion of the aforementioned, and will provide a three-tier program model designed by the presenter (for elementary, middle and high school students) that addresses this issue.

Keywords:

Racism, social-emotional development, children, adults, discrimination.