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. This paper provides an overview of the evidence of the 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 throughout said developmental stages. Moreover, the need for interventions to change educational policies (from early care to high school) and the importance of comprehensive programs designed to address this critical social issue will be highlighted.

Keywords:

Racism, social-emotional development, children, adults, discrimination, adverse childhood experiences.