The Need for Intergenerational Healing among African Americans
The impact of historical trauma on Black women's experiences is significant and deeply rooted, leading to a need for intergenerational healing within the African American community. Black women have been affected by past traumas such as slavery, racial discrimination, and mass incarceration, resulting in negative mental health outcomes such as depression and anxiety. Intergenerational trauma can be passed down through family relationships, which further compounds the need for healing. Approaches to healing from gendered racial trauma must be intersectional, accounting for the unique experiences of Black women. Community support systems also play a critical role in promoting healing and resilience. Ultimately, the process of intergenerational healing is vital to break the cycle of trauma and promote the well-being of Black women and the wider African American community.
The Need for Intergenerational Healing among people with African heritage in the diaspora
Racism, slavery, and colonialism are Institutions that have inflicted systematic violence against people of African heritage. The legacy of racism, slavery, and colonialism has caused African Americans to experience a number of adverse outcomes including, but not limited to, lower educational attainment, greater unemployment, socioeconomic disparities, and poorer health outcomes.
One way to address the harm caused by racism, slavery, and colonialism is through intergenerational healing. Intergenerational healing is the process of reconciling the harm that has been inflicted on previous generations of people of African descent. It involves the restoration of relationships within families and communities, the sharing of knowledge and traditions, and the acknowledgement of the impact of racism, slavery, and colonialism on the lives of people of African descent.
First, intergenerational healing can help to create a sense of community and connectedness among people of African descent. When people feel connected to one another, they are more likely to work together to address the issues that affect them. Furthermore, when people know their history and understand the impact of racism, slavery, and colonialism on their lives, they are in a better position to address the effects of these Institutions.
Second, intergenerational healing can help to reduce the negative impact of racism, slavery, and colonialism on the lives of people of African descent. Racism, slavery, and colonialism have caused African Americans to experience a number of adverse outcomes. By addressing the root causes of these outcomes, intergenerational healing can help to reduce the negative impact of racism, slavery, and colonialism on the lives of people of African descent.
Third, intergenerational healing can help to build positive relationships within families and communities. When families and communities work together to address the harm caused by racism, slavery, and colonialism, they are more likely to have positive relationships with one another. Finally, intergenerational healing can help to teach people of African descent about their history and culture. This knowledge can help to promote self-esteem and pride in one’s identity.While intergenerational healing is beneficial, it is not without its challenges.
References:
Anderson, K. M. (2018). Surviving Intergenerational Trauma: Using Art Therapy with African American Women as a Pathway towards Restoration. The Journal of Black Psychology, 44(8), 771-798.
Carter-Sowell, A., & Stewart, J. M. (2019). “It’s not always what you see on TV”: Examining the impact of violence exposure and coping strategies among black women survivors of intimate partner violence. Journal of aggression, maltreatment & trauma, 28(5), 513-528.
Gibbons, J. L., & Bryant-Davis, T. (2016). Aftermath of rape: considering counseling for African American female victims. Counseling Psychologist, 44(5), 798-830.
Taylor, R.J., Mouzon D.M., Williams D.R., et al (2013) Prevalence and Correlates of Emotional Abuse in the United States: Results From the National Survey of American Life J Interpers Violence;28(4) PMID:22811498.
To be Continued