The Intersection of Adolescent Development and Anti-Black Racism

Joanna Williams, PhD
Rutgers University

Andrew Fuligni, PhD
University of California, Los Angeles

ABSTRACT:
Adolescence—beginning around 10 years of age and ending in the early 20s—represents a particularly important period of experience and opportunity during which youth explore the world, develop a sense of agency, and define their identity. These years are also a key window during which the effects of racism are amplified and deeply felt. Experiences with racism within common contexts and spaces create different experiences for youth along racial lines. We cannot fully support the formation of identity and belonging and increasing agency and exploration for Black youth without considering the impact that anti-Black racism has on these developmental milestones.

 In this presentation, report lead Joanna Lee WillIiams, PhD, and co-author Andrew Fuligni, PhD, will discuss insights from developmental science on how racism and related inequities impact key developmental milestones of adolescence and review research-based recommendations to support Black youth within key social contexts of the middle and high school years.