The Developmental Psychology of the Black Child

In this book, the author delved deeply into the factors the influence the development of the black child from the prenatal stage thru adulthood. He describes the black experience in such a way that the reader can gain a deeper understanding of the community as a whole.

For example, he describes one major challenge that affects the development as “the frustration of the black existence”. This refers to all the opportunities withheld, obstacles faced and thwarted goal achievement that one attributes, whether real or not, to their being black. This frustration leads to a dependency, increased need for assimilation and a lack of desire to achieve anything outside of traditional “white” standards.

This idea actually struck a chord with me. When I created the GUILLA (Gifted Unique Individual Livin’ Life Accomplishin’) philosophy, it was built on the idea of inspiring people to reach beyond themselves and those perceived obstacles to accomplish more and be their best selves. This may have been fueled by my own internal need for motivation to pursue my dreams, tho. However, some people have adopted it with great results, whether consciously or unconsciously, but many have not for various reasons. So, the ideas he presented in this book really resonated with me.

All in all, this is a great book for parents raising a black child (mixed kids, too…lol), teachers who teach them, mental health professionals who treat them and anyone with a curiosity to learn more about the culture.

Check out the latest episode of the Reading Is D.O.P.E. podcast right here….

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