Title

Addressing systemic inequities: A psychoeducational group for advocating for African Americans

Author

Jaree' Barnwell

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

Date of Graduation

5-12-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Educational Specialist (EdS)

Department

Department of Graduate Psychology

Advisor(s)

Amanda Evans

A. Renee Staton

Joseph LeBlanc

Abstract

This paper will discuss and describe the development of an open psychoeducational group that will empower people of the community through education to advocate for African American/Black people within institutions that may perpetuate barriers. Acknowledging that one in four people struggle with mental health issues, it is imperative to consider an appropriate treatment modality that destigmatizes mental health and equips participants with information. This group is especially relevant as one in three African Americans, who struggle with mental health concerns, will never receive the appropriate care comparatively afforded to white populations. This thesis will concisely discuss the education system, the mental health system, and the legal system through a lens that describes the impact these institutions have on the criminalization of Black people. As well as emphasize how awareness, affordability, and access can impact a Black person's experience.

Recommended Citation

Barnwell, Jaree', "Addressing systemic inequities: A psychoeducational group for advocating for African Americans" (2022). Educational Specialist, 2020-current. 37.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/edspec202029/37