Racism has a negative impact on
child development; actually, children are aware of their ethnic identity when
they are as young as three years old.
Racial discrimination can affect a child's self-esteem, cause depression
and even affect brain development. A
study directed on the African American population in the U.S. showed that parents who are
exposed to discrimination are less sensitive to their children's needs, cannot
provide emotional support, do not discuss ethnic identity with their children
and use harsh discipline. Children need
their parents' support to have self-esteem and be able to cope with discrimination.
Nurturing ethnic identity also helps children
protect themselves from the negative health consequences of discrimination (About
Kids Health, 2012).
Another study shows that parents
who report racial discrimination have a lower risk of depression and other mental
health problems (American Journal of Public Health, 2004). Parents who take action when exposed to
discrimination can cope better and help their children acquire ethnic pride;
therefore their children also have a lower risk of mental health problems.
References
Caughy M, O'Campo PJ, &
Muntaner C. 2004. Experiences of racism among African American parents and the
mental health of their preschool-aged children. American Journal of
Public Health, 94, 2118-2124.
Margaret O'Brien Caughy, Patricia
J. O'Campo, and Carles Muntaner December 2004. Experiences of Racism
Among African American Parents and the Mental Health of Their Preschool-Aged
Children. American Journal of Public Health: Vol. 94, No. 12, pp.
2118-2124.
Hello Ghayna,
ReplyDeleteBeing African American, I can truly relate to the articles that you used. It is true that some African Americans have allowed the issue of racism to make them bitter and it has caused many problems for families who had to suffer because of the color of our skin, but it also helped to make many strong-willed and determined to make a better life in the future. Racism comes in many forms and fashions and it is up to everyone to learn how to embrace that which is different and learn from everyone thing and every one.
Joyce Galloway
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on Racism and the effect it has on young children! I think it is a shame that adults basically teach young children about bias. I have worked with very young children and you can tell the different between young children and 3-4 year old and their knowledge of bias. I think it is important especially for early childhood educators to remain as anti bias as possible. There are a lot of ways to help support young children remain anti bias and be tolerant and accepting of others.
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