Introduction
Based on a thorough literature review and analysis, the chosen problem for the present assignment is the negative impact of racial disparities on the mental health of adolescents belonging to racial minority groups. Racism is a pervasive problem, and some of its causes include historical events, cognitive biases, severe stigmatization, and national systemic structures (Atkin et al., 2022). Furthermore, while it can affect everyone, minority groups share a disproportionate burden, as noted by the socioeconomic and psycho-cultural issues faced by communities of color in the United States (Hetey et al., 2024). To narrow down the problem, the present paper focuses on one group specifically: adolescents from minority racial groups who experience mental health complications. This population is particularly vulnerable to racial stigma, implicit biases, and gradual health deterioration due to systematic oppression and sensitive age.
Two Theories: Self-Determination and Critical Multiracial Theories
The two approaches that can help explain the problem and identify potential solutions are the Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and the Critical Multiracial Theory (CMT). The former is a prominent theoretical approach to understanding human behavior through the lens of intrinsic motivation, first introduced in the 1980s (Perlman et al., 2020).
In the context of the present research, it is helpful because it can reveal critical insights into how racial prejudices and stigmatization influence the choices of people affected by systematic oppression. Adolescence is a period of rapid cognitive and intellectual development, and the question of race is immensely prevalent in self-determination (Kanbur et al., 2020). Unfortunately, many young people might ostracize themselves from minority groups because of external pressure/systematic issues and lose a sense of belonging and inclusion (Kanbur et al., 2020). For this reason, the theory of self-determination is critical to this paper as it can explain this phenomenon and establish the causes of deteriorating mental health due to racial disparities.
Similarly, CMT is another beneficial theory that helps psychologists understand the struggles of minority groups. This approach challenges the conventional description of races as homogenous groups, such as White, Black, or Hispanic, since this classification disregards the suffering of multiracial people (Atkin et al., 2022). Furthermore, it states that the current race discourse is counterproductive to helping people from racial minority groups because it creates a direct separation between them (Atkin et al., 2022). Ultimately, CMT provides valuable insights into how adolescents from minority groups might experience racial stigmatization and associated mental health complications because of the focus on distinctions between racial/ethnic populations.
Both theories are helpful for the present research since they directly address the systematic causes of mental health problems among racial minority groups. They are similar in this sense; however, they also differ in several respects, such as their objectives and scopes. Namely, SDT is a more generalized framework that explains the phenomenon of self-determination, while its relation to the examined problem is secondary (Perlman et al., 2020).
On the other hand, CMT directly addresses the issue of racism, the struggles of multiracial groups, and their connection to potential psychotherapy methods (Atkin et al., 2022). The main strengths of both approaches include cultural sensitivity and the focus on theoretical knowledge that can help people cope with systemic oppression and find their place in the world. Conversely, the primary weakness of both theories is their relatively shallow emphasis on practical implications, as they do not provide explicit information on treatment.
Research Synthesis
Currently, extensive research is devoted to the problem of racism and its negative consequences on vulnerable population groups. In this context, several critical notions must be addressed. First, many researchers address the adverse impact of racial disparities on adolescents, specifically in such settings as schools and community initiatives. For example, Riddle and Sinclair (2019) have found that Black students are statistically more likely to be subjected to disciplinary action, ranging from mild to severe measures, including expulsion. In turn, this racially driven issue disproportionately affects adolescents from racial minority groups, resulting in mental health complications (Riddle & Sinclair, 2019).
Turetsky et al. (2021) have found that the critical underlying cause of the problem lies in teachers’ attitudes and implicit biases. According to their review of 34 academic studies, there is statistically significant evidence that teachers, in general, have more negative implicit biases toward stigmatized groups than toward advantaged populations (Turetsky et al., 2021). In the context of the present research, this notion is critical because it implies that teachers’ unconscious attitudes might contribute to the problem and aggravate the mental health of vulnerable students.
Secondly, many scientists use various research methodologies and focus on discussions of racism. For example, Atkin et al. (2022) state that the current discourse about race is counterproductive to finding practical solutions. Namely, the authors believe that the distinct separation between races facilitates polarization and tension between various racial groups (Atkin et al., 2022). Moreover, it places a disproportionate burden on multiracial people, who feel excluded from their respective communities due to political and theoretical discourse (Atkin et al., 2022).
Haeny et al. (2021) also believe that innovative approaches in scientific disciplines are necessary to address the most concerning areas. For instance, the authors state that providing shared nomenclature and terminology can significantly enhance the quality of antiracism research in psychology specifically (Haeny et al., 2021). These theoretical advances are pivotal to transforming how scientists perceive the impact of racism in academic fields, potentially resulting in positive change.
Finally, in addition to general reviews of the problem and theoretical methodologies, some experts focus on empirical solutions and policy-making. For instance, Hetey et al. (2024) have utilized the principles of psychology and racial bias to educate the police force in Oakland, California, and reduce the prevalence of racial profiling. While the study does not directly address the adolescent population, it is a positive sign that scientists translate research into practice, attempting to make a positive change in society.
Similarly, Perlman et al. (2020) have examined the prevalence of racial bias among undergraduate nursing students during their empirical practice. The authors conclude that immediate interventions focused on reflective assignments, discussion, and education can significantly reduce cognitive biases and foster a more tolerant society (Perlman et al., 2020). Ultimately, while extensive research is being devoted to the problem, there is still significant room for growth, and it is critical to educate people regarding the negative impact of racism on the mental health of vulnerable populations.
Cultural Considerations
Cultural sensitivity is one of the main strengths of both examined theories and the general academic progress on the problem. SDT and CMT recognize that identity is a complex phenomenon comprising multiple interconnected factors, including cultural upbringing and norms (Perlman et al., 2020). In particular, CMT discusses how multiracial people perceive several cultural origins and develop coping mechanisms (Atkin et al., 2022).
Nevertheless, one potential weakness, both in theory and in practice, is the overemphasis on a single racial group. The Black-White dichotomy has been central to the historical development of the United States and the main trends in psychology (Atkin et al., 2022). However, today, the country comprises multiple vulnerable minority populations, and it is critical not to dismiss their struggles by overfocusing on one specific racial group.
Ethical Considerations
Ethics is the cornerstone of contemporary psychology, and it is imperative to ensure that the research adheres to its main principles and considerations. Among them, two critical standards include 3.01 (unfair discrimination) and 7.03 (accuracy in teaching) (American Psychological Association, n.d.). The former requires that psychologists not discriminate against their clients and peers based on gender, race, culture, or any related characteristics. This consideration is essential because it guides fair decision-making and helps reduce racial prejudices/implicit biases. The second standard requires that teachers present course syllabi that are consistent with evidence-based research and academic progress. This consideration is critical because it ensures that aspiring psychologists obtain relevant and up-to-date information, including the negative impact of racism.
Conclusion
In summary, racial prejudice remains a critical problem, and it is essential to analyze its impact on various population groups. The present paper focuses specifically on adolescents from racial minority groups since they undergo rapid cognitive development and might be disproportionately affected by racial disparities in society. Two theories that can help elaborate on the topic and propose practical solutions are the Self-Determination Theory and the Critical Multiracial Theory.
Both SDT and CMT adhere to contemporary cultural and ethical considerations, making them appropriate choices for the current research. Possible key measures of success include the prevalence of implicit biases in the general population and the number of adolescents from minority groups who undergo treatment. Ultimately, continuous research is necessary to mitigate the scope and impact of racial disparities on teenagers from vulnerable population groups.
References
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct.
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