Race
Race has a long and complicated history in the United States. According to research by psychologists and others, prejudice and discrimination are still problems in American society. Even people who think they’re not racist may have unconscious thoughts that lead to subtle discriminatory behaviors. Fortunately, the research also shows that contact between people of different racial and ethnic backgrounds can reduce stereotyping and prejudice.
Adapted from APA's amicus brief on Grutter v. Bollinger and Gratz v. Bollinger.
Understanding Racism
- 'Not much has changed'
- Segregation Ruled Unequal, and Therefore Unconstitutional
Psychologists Kenneth and Mamie Clark Ph.d demonstrated that segregation harmed Black children's self-images. Their testimony before the Supreme Court contributed to the landmark Supreme Court case that desegregated American public schools: Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, KS.
Getting Help
News
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Minorities wait longer for breast cancer surgery
April 24, 2013, Reuters
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Study finds gene that may raise Alzheimer's risk in blacks
April 10, 2013, Fox News
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A college degree fails to protect African-American women from divorce
March 10, 2013, Psych Central
Monitor on Psychology Articles
- African-American women at risk
January 2013
- Driving out cancer disparities
March 2012
- Segregations's ongoing legacy
October 2011
- A new way to combat prejudice
October 2011
- Bridging the multicultural gap
April 2011
- When tribal law conflicts with federal law
April 2011
Books
- APA Handbook of Intercultural Communication
April 2010
- Studying Ethnic Minority and Economically Disadvantaged Populations
June 2009
- Dialogues on Difference
September 2006
- Preventing Youth Violence in a Multicultural Society
December 2005
APA Offices and Programs
- Office of Ethnic Minority Affairs
The office seeks to increase scientific understanding of how psychology pertains to race, ethnicity and culture.
