Supporting the Well-Being of Biracial Individuals
By Dr. Arianna Slotnick
Multiracial individuals are increasingly prevalent in the United States, yet our grasp of their experiences remains incomplete. Past studies have hinted at the pivotal role of belongingness for the mental well-being of multiracial individuals, underscoring how feelings of inclusion or exclusion can profoundly impact their psychological health.
In her dissertation, Dr. Arianna Slotnick set out to deepen our understanding of the emotional journey of Black/White biracial college students. Building upon existing literature, Dr. Slotnick's study aimed to explore the intricate interplay between belongingness, biracial identification, and emotional well-being.
By interviewing 19 Black/White biracial college students, Dr. Slotnick's research sought to illuminate the nuanced dynamics at play. Her findings emphasized the importance of fostering environments where biracial students feel affirmed and valued in their identity exploration.
Of particular importance was the role of multiracial pride—a sense of celebration and affirmation of one's mixed heritage. Dr. Slotnick's study underscored how embracing and celebrating their diverse background could bolster the emotional resilience of biracial individuals, providing them with a sense of empowerment and validation amidst societal complexities.
Moreover, Dr. Slotnick's research shed light on a critical gap in the field of psychology: the absence of comprehensive guidelines for supporting multiracial individuals. Addressing this gap is essential for equipping mental health professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to provide culturally sensitive care that recognizes and honors the unique challenges and strengths of biracial individuals.
Building upon Dr. Slotnick's findings, there is a pressing call to action for mental health organizations and professionals. The American Psychological Association (APA) and similar bodies must take proactive steps to develop comprehensive guidelines and training programs focused on supporting multiracial individuals. By prioritizing the inclusion of multiracial perspectives within their frameworks, these organizations can ensure that mental health professionals are equipped to provide effective and culturally competent care for all individuals, regardless of their racial background.
Furthermore, university counseling centers and mental health practitioners must recognize the importance of creating inclusive environments for biracial college students. This includes offering culturally sensitive therapy and support groups that address the unique needs and experiences of multiracial individuals. By actively engaging with student-led organizations and affinity spaces, counseling centers can foster meaningful connections and provide tailored support for biracial students on campus.
For multiracial individuals and their families, research has shown that positive messaging given to biracial children about their racial background and heritage may significantly influence and bolster their sense of social-emotional wellbeing throughout their lifespan. As multiracial individuals grow and become independent from their families of origin, it becomes important for them to intentionally seek out friendships with people who validate their identity, and those who may also share a multiracial identity, though the experience of being multiracial is not homogenous and will differ from person to person. Just like all people, multiracial people are on a constant journey of racial identification where they attempt to make sense of both how they perceive themselves and how others perceive them, and it is important that they feel encouraged to explore and resolve this. Multiracial individuals may find solace in books or podcasts such as “On Being Biracial” [https://www.onbeingbiracial.com/podcast] as they move through life.
In summary, Dr. Slotnick's study represents a significant stride in advancing our understanding of multiracial identity and the emotional well-being of biracial college students. By embracing diversity, celebrating multiracial pride, and advocating for inclusive mental health care, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for all individuals to thrive.