Date of Award

8-2026

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Mary Z. Anderson, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Bridget Weller, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Jennifer Foster, Ph.D.

Keywords

Adolescent, biopsychosocial, Black, racial trauma

Abstract

Over the past two decades, scholars have increasingly recognized that chronic stress from racism can cause racial trauma in Black individuals. However, research on the impact of racial trauma on Black adolescents remains limited. Understanding the language and experiences of Black adolescents is essential for identifying and addressing the biopsychosocial effects of racial trauma. This study used interpretive phenomenological analysis to examine how 12 Black adolescents (9 boys, 3 girls, aged 14-17) from the Midwest conceptualize, experience, and cope with racial trauma. Participants completed two interviews: an initial session exploring their understanding and experiences, and a member-checking interview (completed by 6 participants) to validate preliminary themes. Interviews were conducted virtually or in-person, based on preference. Two participants also served as research assistants and contributed to the final analysis, enhancing the study’s rigor. This study identified several main themes and subthemes. Conceptualization themes reflected the influence of school and parental teachings on participants’ understanding of racial trauma, experiences of cognitive distancing, and distinctions between experiences of adolescents versus adults. Definition themes centered around violence and distinctions between racism and racial trauma. Reaction themes included threats to personal agency, and self-fulfilling stereotypes. Coping themes included maladaptive strategies such as suicidal ideation and neglect of self-care, alongside positive strategies such as healing through discussion. This study amplifies the voices and experiences of Black adolescents, providing deeper insights into their developmentally specific experiences and reactions to racial trauma. Findings promote mental health professionals becoming more responsive to the experiences and long-term impacts of racial trauma on Black adolescents. Additionally, results provide educators and healthcare professionals with knowledge to inform assessment of racial trauma severity and impact, and to develop culturally responsive interventions.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

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