Black Women’s Firsts in Psychology

From as young as five years of age, black girls are perceived as more adult-like and less innocent than their white female peers. This “girlhood, interrupted” is characterized by the belief that black girls are more independent, know more about adult topics, and need to be comforted and supported less than peers in their respective age groups. These perceptions can become generalized and create environments in which African-American women receive less support, nurturing and protection in our society¹. Sociopolitical factors such as poverty, exposure to crime, food insecurity and housing affordability, which African-Americans and women of all ethnicities are disproportionately more likely to experience, are additional pressures that affect mental health negatively. The cumulative effects of these stressors combined with historical trauma, gender inequality and racial prejudice can contribute to conditions that arise from chronic stress such as in anxiety, depression and high-risk behaviors such as substance abuse or unsafe sexual practices⁴.

These early childhood experiences can have lasting impressions, which make the achievements of marginalized populations including ethnic minorities, women and people living with disabilities all the more noteworthy⁴. Resilience has been a constant marker of the achievements of African-Americans throughout history in the United States. However, resilience alone is not enough. Many African-Americans turn to faith, friends, family and other social support systems during times of distress³. But only about a quarter of African-Americans seek mental health treatment when in crisis, even though African-American adults are 20 percent more likely to report serious psychological distress as adults; are more likely to have feelings of sadness, hopelessness and worthlessness in general as adults; and are more likely to attempt suicide as teens².  Far too often in the black community, conversations about mental health are few and far between. We must re-examine how to best make accessible, retain, engage and support African-Americans individuals in the journey towards better mental health. By supporting legislation, destigmatizing mental health discussions, providing affordable, accessible, relevant and culturally competent treatment, we can all aim to close the treatment gap. More directly, a diversified workforce, which includes people of color in leadership positions in the field of psychological science and practice would help ensure that people and communities of color receive the services and healthcare they need and deserve. That is why this month we will celebrate black women who have been trailblazers and leaders in the field of psychology.