Racism in Education among Black Youth in Canada and its Association with Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Abstract

Racial discrimination in educational settings remains a significant barrier to equitable learning environments and is toxic for the mental health of Black youth in Canada. This study employed a mixed-methods multi-study approach to document the rates, dynamics, and mental health impacts of racial discrimination in education experienced by Black youths aged 14 to 24. Quantitative data were collected from two large samples (N = 558 and N = 914) to measure racial discrimination in education, stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 32 youths provided deeper insights into their racial discrimination's experiences in educational settings. Over 40% of participants reported racial discrimination in education, which was significantly associated to elevated symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and PTSD. In both quantitative datasets, experience of racial discrimination in education moderated the association between resilience and internalized mental health problems (β = .53, p = .037, β = .34, p = .015, respectively). Racial discrimination in education lowers the protective role of resilience against internalized mental health problems. Thematic analysis of qualitative data uncovered key themes, including pervasive assumptions of low academic potential for Black students by authority figures, lack of appropriate intervention by educators and administrators when racial discrimination occurred, and ongoing enablement of a racist environment within schools. These findings underscore a critical need for systemic reform in Canadian schools and universities to prevent racism and address its mental health impacts. Implementing culturally responsive policies and antiracist interventions can foster safer, more inclusive educational environments, supporting well-being and academic success of Black Canadians youth.