Department: Graduate School of Education
Racism and mental health: Racism is pervasive and it undermines the mental health and well-being of youth of color. A recent study found African American adolescents report an average of 5 encounters with racial discrimination per day. Racial discrimination and the resulting consequences can disrupt development and, if unaddressed, can contribute to race-based health disparities in adulthood. Professor Saleem, who has expertise as a clinical-community psychologist, will work together with school leaders to address racial stressors and improve the utilization of culturally relevant practices to promote the psychological health and resilience of African American and other historically underserved and marginalized adolescents of color.