Presidential Statement on Racism, Dehumanization, and the Mental Health of Children and Adolescents
Washington, DC - Black History Month offers an opportunity to honor leaders and stories that shaped our nation while acknowledging the unfinished work of confronting racism and inequality. We recognize both the progress achieved and the responsibility that remains.
In recent days, many in our community have expressed concern about public rhetoric and imagery that demean and dehumanize individuals and groups. As child and adolescent psychiatrists, we are keenly aware of the damage these messages inflict.
Young people form their understanding of fairness, dignity, and self-worth through the behavior and language of adults. When children encounter messaging that portrays people as less than human, those messages trigger stress responses, undermine their sense of safety, and distort developing perceptions about identity and belonging. When those messages come from trusted figures and adults in positions of influence, the psychological toll is entrenched even further.
Decades of research have shown that exposure to racism and discrimination increases risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Now, when dehumanizing images cross our children’s screens as casually as music or art, their mental health suffers exponentially.
AACAP unequivocally rejects racism and dehumanization in all forms. We ground our position in science, clinical experience, and our ethical responsibility to safeguard the mental health of children and adolescents.
Every child deserves safe environments that affirm their humanity and support their healthy development. We call on those in power to model respect, positive leadership, and an unwavering commitment to dignity for all.
John Walkup, MD
President, AACAP
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The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry promotes the healthy development of children, adolescents, and families through advocacy, education, and research. Child and adolescent psychiatrists are the leading physician authority on children’s mental health. For more information, please visit www.aacap.org
Media Contact:
Rob Grant, Communications Director
202.966.7300
rgrant@aacap.org
www.aacap.org