Theme 2: First Experience With Race

My first and really only experience with race happened when I was in elementary school. I remember vividly playing on the apparatus on the playground minding my business, (never even realized I had been at this school for a while now and didn't have ONE friend), when two Hispanic little girls came up to me and started to tell me how I couldn't play there because I was a "nigger." I responded, "You're a nigger." I had never heard that word prior to this interaction. I remember her extending her arm out next to mine to show me like no, you're the n****. I was soooo freaking appalled because I had never noticed my skin color being different from almost everybody's at that school. I was six years old at the time, in first grade, and that was the first time I felt anxious and stressed. I couldn't sleep that night. I never told anybody about the situation or how it made me feel because I was embarrassed and I didn't understand why I felt that way. Every day thereafter, I would just sit in amazement on the yard, like wow, I'm the only n**** at this school. That interaction messed with me for years because I thought racism would have came from white people. Nope, never. Always Hispanic girls/women and that always confused me growing up. That experience made me feel low, very low at the time. Now, I just view Hispanic women as not liking black women because I rarely have friendly, welcoming interactions with them. (I'm not trying offend anyone so I will leave it there and keep it light, but this is MY experience, so..)

Theme 3: Positive Sense of Self Brainstorm

I think it is possible to have a positive sense of ethnic identity while having a negative sense of self. From my personal experience, I did go through a phase where I hated being dark skinned. It was more of the colorism for me. I grew up watching how the lighter skinned girls were always looked at as beautiful and people just treated them better. It didn't make me have a negative outlook on being black, but moreso just wishing I were a lighter shade of black. I do believe if you identify positively with African American Psychology you will have a stronger sense of self. All I learned about was us being enslaved and put down, so it used to make me feel like African Americans could only go so far in life, but if I learned about why we act the way we do, I think I wouldn't have let so much petty stuff meant to put me down, down.

After reading the assigned reading and analyzing the short video by Dr. Nelson Mandela, I think that the spirit of Ubuntu is somewhat alive and well today in African American culture. Ubuntu means being unselfish, helpful, loving, caring and so on. I feel like African Americans are unselfish and helpful by nature, but due to generation traumas and the way society treats us, we tend become less helpful, loving and caring. In African culture, they are welcoming and will feed you, well, I feel like that is very similar to the way African Americans are today. We're too nice, welcoming and have huge hearts and often end up being taken advantage of.

THEME 2: 7 Concepts of Afrocentric Psychology

Maafa is the enslavement of African people. I feel like this concept is most present in the African American community. For example, during the pandemic there was PPP loan to help micro and small businesses pay their employees. You had some people apply legit, then you had some people who were not qualified to get it, they applied and received their PPP loan. Me, personally, I could care less, I'm prone on my people getting their money. What rubbed me the wrong way was all the African Americans wishing jail on those who received the loan as if people were stealing from "Master." I watched so many people turn on people, people calling housing on people, just jealous because one was bold enough to apply, but because fear held them back, they were ready to bring down every African American that received the loan. That right there showed me how African Americans still have that enslavement mentality today.

THEME 3: 7 Principles of Nguzo Saba

Kuumba means creativity. I feel like this one resonated the most with me and have actually seen this in the African American community all my life, even today. African Americans are very creative from doing hair to inventing things. We have always been known for our creativity.

1. Within the category of Natal Measures, I chose birthplace and natural parents. Being born in a certain environment can have an effect on how you identify self. An example would be a white child being adopted at birth by an African American family. They might begin to identify as being African American because that may be all they know from home to school. I also chose natural parents because I believe it is hard to know who you truly are if you don't know where you came from.

2. Within the category of behavioral measures, I chose friendship and acquaintance affiliative patterns. Friends and acquaintances are people one choose to deal with, kind of shows what kind of person they are. For example, someone choosing to hang around gang members and drug dealers, it's almost safe to say they too want to be a part of that lifestyle.

3. Within the category of subjective measures, I chose role models because who one look up to may be a tell-tale sign of who they are desiring to be like. For example, we had an African American 14 year old in our placement who LOVED everything about this white Youtuber. She would replay her songs over and over again, would only watch white shows and movies, even began to change her look to identify with "white." She was a heavyset girl and had this delusion that she was anorexic and her voice even sounded like she was trying to sound "white". It's safe to say she had identity issues and the Youtuber being her role model had a huge influence on how she self identified.

4. Within the category of situation-contextual measures, I chose Home-family because what you are taught at home can be very important on how one identify themself. Example, If someone is not being taught they are perfect the way they are, or teaching them about their heritage, they may begin to become conflicted about their true self and have issues with their self identity.

3.2 MULTI-GROUP ETHNIC IDENTITY MEASURE

1. My Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure score is 38.

2. To me this score means although I feel connected and love my culture, I could probably do more research on my ethnic background to figure out where I really come from.

3. I think this score means that I have a strong bond with the African American ethnic group because per the statistic, I scored about 79%, I'm more than 50% connected, and I also just feel a strong bond with my culture, I can't imagine being of any others.

4. To me this analysis means, although I connect with my ethnicity on a natural level, there are still so many things that needs to be learned about where I come from and who I am.

3.3 Padlet post: ROSENBERG'S SELF-ESTEEM SCALE

1. I scored 15 on the Rosenberg's self-esteem scale.

2. My score to me means that I pretty much have low self esteem.

3. My score is the number that it is because I have a few insecurities that I need to deal with. One being my weight gain. I absolutely HATE the weight I gained and I think about it non stop. It has a lot do with me feeling less than.

3.4 RACIAL IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT

1. I am in the Internalization stage.

2. I believe I am in the Internalization stage because I am comfortable with having open conversations about race without becoming so defensive.

3. I now can have these conversations with other races about their beliefs and culture without feeling uncomfortable and getting defensive.

3.5: FIND YOUR RACIAL IDENTITY RESOURCE

Race and Racial Identity Are Social Constructs. (n.d.). https://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2015/06/16/how-fluid-is-racial-identity/race-and-racial-identity-are-social-constructs

2/28/2024

Psych 110

Racial Autobiography Outline

I. Introduction Paragraph: Race is defined as a social construct used to categorize people based on physical characteristics such as skin color, hair texture, and facial features.

A.     Introduction Statement: Race has been used to justify discrimination and injustice all throughout history.

B.     According to research, race is a social construct.

II.       Body Paragraph 1: Self Assessments/Scores/Analysis

A.     Main point 1: Multi-group Ethnic Identity Measure

1.      Supporting Detail: I scored 38 which translates to me that although I feel connected and love my culture, I should do more research on my ethnic background to discover where I really come from.

B.     Main point 2: Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale

1.      Supporting Detail: My score 15 on this scale and I interpret that as having low self-esteem.

III.     Body Paragraph 2: Summary of Stages of Racial Identity Development & Life Examples

A.     Main point 1: I am currently in the Internalization stage.

1.      Supporting Detail: I am comfortable with having open conversations about race.

B.     Main point 2: When I was in grade school, I was in the pre-encounter stage.

1.      Supporting Detail: Facing racism at such a young age almost made me hate being black.

IV.   Body Paragraph 3: Post Racial Society Critical Analysis

A.     Main point 1: Some may argue that we live in a post-racial society, but they fail to recognize the racial disparities that we still face today.

1.      Supporting Detail: The criminal justice system, education and housing are a few systemic inequalities are challenges that the minority still encounter.

B.     Main point 2: Systemic Inequalities have a serious affect on society.

1.      Supporting Detail: Poverty stricken families usually experience limited access to healthcare, unkempt housing, and lack of access to quality education.

V.     Conclusion Paragraph

A.     Summary statement: Addressing these inequalities to destroy these unjust systems could create justice for all.

B.     Closing Statement: Implementing anti-discrimination laws and promoting equity could help us move to a society where opportunities are not determined by race.

https://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2015/06/16/how-fluid-is-racial-identity/race-and-racial-identity-are-social-constructs

1. What is the Imposter Syndrome?

"Imposter Syndrome is the inability to absorb one's accomplishments and the persistent fear that one would be exposed as a fraud."

2. How does the Imposter Syndrome affect a student in their educational journey AND into their career experiences?

Students with imposter syndrome may develop self doubt, procrastinate or become a perfectionist over assignments. They may also begin to dummy their self down to fit how they feel the professor expect them to be.

3. How does the Imposter Syndrome specifically affect the self-esteem and mental health of African American?

Because Imposter Syndrome is not just a voice a head in most of African Americans, it can lead to mental health issues. Imposter syndrome can worsen symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions in African Americans, affecting their overall well-being and ability to thrive in educational and professional settings.

4. How do race and gender play into the African American woman's experience in the workplace?

African American women may be underrepresented in leadership and decision-making positions within organizations. This lack of representation can limit opportunities for advancement, mentorship, and networking, leading to feelings of isolation and imposter syndrome. Mentoring, sponsorship, career development opportunities, and creating inclusive work environments are all important steps towards creating a more equal work environment for African American women.

5. State one strategy that you believe would be successful in addressing this issue and improving the workplace for women of color.

People can work to fight discriminatory behavior, raise the voices of women of color, and promote a multicultural and inclusive culture within their organizations by providing tools and strategies for successful unity.

6. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. 

   
   

   One thing that stood out to me is the imposter syndrome. I thought it was just me. I catch myself "dummying" myself down so my instructors will believe I wrote my assignments. I tend to use simple words in fear of being questioned about my intelligence.
   

Imposter Syndrome, Internalized Racism, Self identity issues and resentment are psychological consequences of experiencing subconscious racial slights as a person of color.

2. What stereotypes are perpetuated when racial microaggressions are thrown around towards a person of color?

Assuming someone is lazy, highly educated, or a criminal based off their skin color are stereotypes perpetuated when microaggressions are thrown towards a person of color.

3. Considering Intersectionality, what other issues does this theme affect in the African American community?

Other issues Intersectionality affect in the African American community are disparities within the criminal justice system and educational inequalities.

4. State how these theories of intersectionality, racial microaggressions, bias or white privilege affect one's understanding of "sense of self" or ethnic identity?

These theories of intersectionality, racial microaggressions, bias, and white privilege can influence people's perceptions of their own sense of self and ethnic identity within the African American community. People can use these theories to overcome obstacles, challenge stereotypes, and develop a more empowered and true sense of self based on their ethnic identity.

5. Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more and post it to your Padlet. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue. 

The article that helped me understand this topic more will be linked below. This article helped me understand that I have not only experienced microaggressions, but may have been apart of the problem with spreading microaggressions as well. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/17456916211039209

6. State a strategy that you feel can be successful to address the use of microaggressions especially when the offender is unaware of how their reactions affect people of color.

   
   

   Microaggressions can be addressed by promoting a transparency within a community or organization. Empowering bystanders to speak up and intervene when they witness harmful behavior can help in the prevention of microaggressions. Also, creating a supportive environment in which people feel comfortable speaking up about microaggressions can help hold offenders accountable and promote a more inclusive and respectful community.

7. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. 

One thing that stood out to me in the video about intersectionality is how we don't advocate as hard for African American women who were killed by police like we do for the African American men. I never realized it until watching the video. I knew almost all the men named, whereas I've only heard of one of the women.

Black neighborhoods and communities have shown a strong sense of unity, courage and support through out history. Although faced with systemic racism and discrimination, these communities have stayed loyal to one another for the most part. This was the drive to civil rights movements.

2. WEAKNESSES: What are the weaknesses of Black neighborhoods and communities and state one solution to an issue you have raised?

Lack of access to quality healthcare, education and jobs are some of the weaknesses within black neighborhoods and communities.

3. OPPORTUNITIES: What are three ways in which Black neighborhoods and communities could play a role in the progressive movement of the Black community?

Three ways black neighborhoods and communities could play a role in the progressive moment of the Black community are: Supporting black owned businesses, investing in quality education, and advocating for equality.

4. THREATS: What are three ways in which Black neighborhoods and communities could have a detrimental effect on the progressive movement of the Black community?

   
   

   Three ways Black neighborhoods and communities could have a detrimental effect on the progressive movement of the Black community are: Lack of unity, Disengagement when it comes to politics, and gentrification.

   
   

   5. Find one resource that helps you understand these themes and post it to your Padlet. State the resources' significance to this unit's material. 

   This resource speaks on gentrification and how it leads to wealth being transferred from Blacks to Whites.

https://www.governing.com/community/what-is-lost-when-our-historically-black-communities-fade-away

6. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. 

One thing that stood out to me is how black people weren't able to use their GI bill because they lived in a redlined neighborhood.

The most important thing that i learned from this unit's reading is Black women often face pressure from society to prioritize career success, strength, and independence leaving them feeling isolated and disconnected in their relationships. This has helped me gain a better understanding of Black male and female interpersonal relationships by realizing the importance of open communication, vulnerability, and mutual support for building strong and fulfilling connections. It also taught me the value of challenging societal expectations and stereotypes that can cripple genuine connections between Black men and women.

2. How do long-standing stereotypes in the media of African American females being portrayed as property (i.e. in rap videos etc.) affect the psyche of those seeing these images and the African American woman's dating prospects?

The long-standing media stereotypes of African American females being portrayed as property in the media such as rap videos can have a negative impact on viewers psyches and African American women's dating prospects. These portrayals minimize and dehumanize Black women, minimizing them to objects or possessions rather than individuals with dignity. These stereotypes can influence how Black women are perceived in the dating scene. They may be overlooked because of these negative portrayals and unable to break free from the stereotypes implemented on them. This may limit their ability to form meaningful and healthy relationships based on mutual respect, equality, and understanding.

3. What factors are contributing to the rising number of single Black unmarried females?

Changes in the population, gender imbalances, economic disparities, cultural expectations, and the dynamics of relationships all contribute to an increase in the number of single Black unmarried females.

4. Why is there a stigma in the African American community against the LGBTQ community?

African Americans have historically faced racial discrimination and rejection, which may contribute to an unwillingness to accept groups like the LGBTQ community. cultural beliefs and social norms in the African American community might stress traditional gender roles and heterosexual relationships, which can lead to opposition or misunderstanding of LGBTQ identities. Religious beliefs, which are often deeply rooted in the African American community, may also add to the the continuing stigma against the LGBTQ community by applying scripture to condemn homosexuality.

5. Find one resource that helps you understand these themes and post it to your padlet. State the resources' significance to this unit's material. 

It highlights the importance of facing and conquering harmful stereotypes and biases that can have an impact on the well being and experiences of Black people, particularly Black women.

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/21676968211005598

Code switching is when someone is switching between different languages or dialects during a conversation or interaction, usually between different communication styles, based on the setting. Being able to code switch can be useful for African Americans in certain professional settings, but it is vital for people to keep a sense of authenticity in their communication. Knowing when to code switch is vital for success.

2. How does expecting code switching threaten diversity?

Expecting people to change how they speak may threaten diversity by making people feel like there is only one correct way to speak. It can also keep certain people in power, making others feel excluded.

3. How do the effects of code switching intersect with a persons' mental health?

A person can develop mental health problems having to always switch up how they speak. It can leave them feeling stressed, anxious, and exhausted. It can also cause them to question who they truly are and lead to mental health problems over time.

4. Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more and post it to your Padlet. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue. 

The article "How Code-Switching Causes More Harm Than Good" provides useful knowledge about the impact of code-switching on people. The article shows the negative consequences of constantly changing one's communication style by looking into the emotional and mental toll it can take. It rejects the belief that code-switching just happens to be a useful skill. https://aninjusticemag.com/how-code-switching-causes-more-harm-than-good-18ede1a57ba0

5. State a strategy that you feel can be successful to address the misconceptions about code switching that exist inside and outside of the African American community.

Promoting education and awareness is a great way for handling beliefs surrounding code switching within and outside the African American community. We can help fight these stereotypes by creating discussions, workshops, and educational programs that explain why code switching is happening, and the impact it has on people's mental health.

6. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. 

This discussion made me realize the importance of education and awareness in addressing beliefs about code switching. We need to increase our understanding of code switching so we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those who use it.

1. What is the significance of the Yoruba Orisha faith also known as Saneria?

The Yoruba Orisha faith, also known as Santeria, is significant to those who practice because it allows them to connect with their cultural heritage and ancestors. It gives people a spiritual pathway for understanding the world around them. They can seek guidance and support from the Orishas in many areas of their lives through rituals and ceremonies. Santeria has an impact on art, music, and culture in the communities where it is practiced, becoming a vital part of their identity and way of life.

2. How does this faith provide a connection back to Africa for those African Americans choosing to join the faith?

African Americans who join the Yoruba Orisha faith can connect with their African roots and ancestors. This connection allows them to regain a sense of identity and cultural heritage that they had lost during slavery. They can feel a strong spiritual connection to Africa and their heritage by participating in religious rituals and ceremonies and honoring the Orishas. This connection is important and empowering, allowing them to better understand and embrace their cultural identity.

3. How does the Yoruba faith treat health and healing in their religion?

Healing is viewed as a holistic process in the Yoruba faith that involves physical, emotional, spiritual, and the environment. Those who practice believe that illness is caused by different problems in a person's life, and that healing requires a holistic approach to restore balance and health.

4. Please locate a resource that helps you understand this theme. Analyze the resource and state the most important thing you learned from it about this topic.

This article helped me understand how the Yoruba religion views health and healing as a holistic journey that includes the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person's life, showing a deep connection between mind, body, and spirit that contributes to a person's overall health.

https://world-religions.info/yoruba-religion/

5. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. 

One thing that stood out to me in Patti Washington's article "Yoruba Religion: History and Beliefs" was how the Yoruba people deeply honor and connect with their Orishas. The way they incorporate rituals and offerings to these spiritual beings to seek guidance, protection, and healing shows their deep spiritual bond and respect for the Orishas in their daily lives.

1. After reading this Washington Post article, can you explain why there are disparities between the amount of pain medication an African American woman would receive compared to other women in the same hospital complaining of pain?

Medical professionals believing African American patients feel less pain than White patients causing them to prescribe less pain medication. African American patients may also receive poor communication and support from healthcare providers which limits their ability to speak up for themselves and receive appropriate pain management.

2. What factors are contributing to the disproportionate number of African American infants who die in childbirth and African American mothers who die in childbirth?

A number of factors contribute to the higher death rate among African American infants and mothers during childbirth. Economic challenges, a lack of access to high-quality healthcare, and limited resources can all have an impact on the health of African American women and babies. Racial bias and discrimination exist in the healthcare system, which can have an impact on the care provided to African American women. Other factors like higher rates of hypertension and diabetes in African American women, as well as limited access to prenatal care and higher levels of stress and trauma also contribute to the disproportionate number of African American mothers who die in childbirth.

3. What are some solutions that can be implemented to improve the experiences of African American mothers giving birth and African American infant survival rates?

We can improve the experiences of African American mothers giving birth and increase infant survival rates by providing them with better access to prenatal care and support services. It is also necessary to address racial biases in the healthcare system and provide appropriate training. Supporting mother's mental health and investing in community programs can also have a big impact. Advocating for policies that prioritize mother's health and promote diversity in healthcare can help to bridge these gaps. We can reduce the disparities that African American mothers and infants face during childbirth by working together and addressing these issues.

4. Find one resource that helps you understand this theme and post it to your Padlet. State the resources' significance to this unit's material. 

Nina Bahadur's article "8 Ways We Can Actually Reduce Black Maternal Mortality" is relevant to the unit's material because it provides solutions to the issue of black maternal mortality. The article gives useful information that adds to the unit's discussions on addressing healthcare disparities and promoting maternal health in African American communities.

https://www.self.com/story/how-to-reduce-black-maternal-mortality

5. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. 

One thing that stood out to me is the reality that social factors such as inequality, access to resources, and discrimination have a huge impact on black Americans.

1. What are the outcomes of institutionally racist policy choices that exclude the needs of low-income minorities in the health care system?

The video shows how prejudiced laws may impact people's health, especially those who are low income or minorities. When these policies neglect these groups' needs, they may be unable to receive the necessary care when they become sick. This can lead to them being unable to manage chronic illnesses such as diabetes or high blood pressure efficiently as they should.

2. How does the intersectionality of the unconscious bias, distrust in the healthcare system, lack of health insurance and lack of health education affect the African American community? 

Unconscious bias, distrust in the healthcare system, a lack of health insurance, and lack of health education all have a negative influence on the African American community. These factors contribute to disparities in healthcare access and quality, resulting in poor health for African Americans.

3. State THREE strategies that you feel can address the issues raised in questions one and two.

First, educating and training healthcare workers about hidden prejudice, cultural differences, and historical injustices can help them better understand and handle the specific needs and experiences of African American patients. This can improve communication, trust, and the overall quality of care. Next, Creating community based programs that focus on building trust, increasing access to healthcare services, and providing health education in the African American community can help improve communication between healthcare providers and patients. Integrating community members in healthcare can help address underlying issues of distrust and a lack of knowledge. And lastly, Advocating for policies that increase access to health insurance, promote affordable healthcare options, and address systemic disparities in the healthcare system will help reduce the financial hurdles that keep African Americans from receiving urgent medical attention.

4. Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more and post it to your Padlet. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue. 

The article highlights the importance of taking action to ensure that all people have equal rights to great healthcare

https://hbr.org/2015/10/the-costs-of-racial-disparities-in-health-care?utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=domcontent&utm_term=Non-Brand&tpcc=paidsearch.google.dsacontent&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8J6wBhDXARIsAPo7QA-2e48m4USol55uP0R-02OQ4xTLZbeuojqxNsYyyJ0wVQZlm2Zk23gaAsjbEALw_wcB

5. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. 

One thing that stood out to me is the health discrepancies that exist throughout different racial and ethnic groups in the United States