Archived
This content is available here for research, reference, and/or recordkeeping.
Author ORCID Identifier
Date Available
5-17-2024
Year of Publication
2022
Document Type
Capstone
Degree Name
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
Faculty
Laura Escobar-Ratliff, DSW
Abstract
Trauma affects individuals differently, but the prevalence of trauma and its impact on Black males is detrimental. Black males are at higher risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, substance abuse, and violent crimes when trauma is left untreated by a mental health professional. As the number of traumatic events experienced by Black males continues to rise, the number of these males who seek mental health treatment remains stagnant and painfully low. Many factors play into these behaviors, yet very little data exists on what is being done to change them.
Product one is a systematic literature review in which research is identified surrounding the effects of childhood trauma on Black males. Multiple studies were selected that proved Black males experience trauma at higher rates than their White counterparts. While reviewing specific outcomes of untreated trauma, the literature also provided reasons why mental health treatment is seldom an option for this population.
Product two, the conceptual paper, delves deeper into the problem of untreated childhood trauma in Black males and provides a clear rationale for why this issue needs to be addressed. Relevant theories are introduced in this product and implications for practitioners as they work with Black male clients. Additionally, suggestions are provided for helping to eradicate the stigma of mental health in the Black community.
Product three applies all the research into actual social work practice. The story of a Black male trauma survivor is told, and the effects of a lack of appropriate treatment are profound. The writer then introduces a newfound tool to measure trauma, specifically in the Black culture. The call to social work practitioners is to think outside the box and consider utilizing this new method when working with Black males.
A one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective for practitioners when treating men of color. When cultural considerations are ignored during the initial assessment, the practitioner risks losing the client altogether. When the social work field can prove its commitment to becoming culturally competent and inclusive of Black male trauma, the walls may slowly fall. Then, hopefully, the normalization of mental health would begin along with the healing of Black male trauma survivors.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Shericka Danielle, "TRANSFORMING HURT BOYS INTO RESTORED MEN: THE LACK OF MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT FOR BLACK MALE TRAUMA SURVIVORS" (2022). DSW Capstone Projects. 47.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/csw_grad_reports/47
Included in
Child Psychology Commons, Clinical and Medical Social Work Commons, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Commons, Community Health Commons, Counseling Commons, Counseling Psychology Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, School Psychology Commons, Social Work Commons
