How to Discuss Race with Black Teens and their Families

Issues of racial socialization and identity have gained renewed attention in our increasing diverse society. Psychologists play an important role in bringing issues of socialization and identity into therapy in the interest of more effectively serving their clients. This article addresses ways that psychologists can introduce issues of race and ethnicity into their work in the service of enhanced therapeutic relationships and outcomes in the continuing quest to reduce mental health disparities and better serve the broader public.

Part of the APA Monitor’s CE Corner article series.

New format: After reading the CE Corner article, you will be asked to complete a “Commitment-to-Change” (CTC) exercise. The CTC exercise is designed to help facilitate the translation of your learning into practice. Completion of the CTC is required prior to the completion of the CE Test based on the APA Monitor CE Corner article.

This product is not included in the APA Unlimited CE program.

New York state psychologists: This program is not currently in compliance with the unique requirements imposed by the New York State Board of Education for New York licensed psychologists CE.

• Learn strategies to help Black teens process and problem-solve racial dilemmas.
• Identify the components of ethnic-racial socialization and their protective benefits in raising Black children.
• Better understand how to introduce the element of race when there is a dichotomy between psychologist and patient.

Charlotte Huff