Racism and incarcerated African American adolescents

Abstract

In the United States, approximately 34% to 36% of juveniles (those under age 17) processed in the court system in 2018 were Black (Abrams et al., 2021). This article examines the dynamics of race with incarcerated Black adolescents. Black adolescents who have been or are incarcerated face similar systemic challenges as any other adolescent and must also be mindful of re-entry into their communities. These challenges are multifaceted and dually complex when an adolescent is both incarcerated and Black. A literary review is provided then intersections of the topics are discussed to conceptualize and provide practical applications. Clinical implications for therapists are offered to practitioners working in the juvenile justice system.