Colorism in Context: Relational Responding, Bias, and Behavioral Change
Hosted by the AzABA Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion SIG

1 Ethics CEUs will be available for attendance

Location: 
Zoom (Login will be emailed prior to the presentation)

Presenters: Danielle S. Jeudy, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA and Meredith Andrews, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA

Summary:

Colorism is a well-documented phenomenon that significantly affects various cultures and aspects of life, highlighting the urgent need for meaningful change. As we explore this topic, we aim to contribute to the existing research and foster impactful dialogue. A unique dimension of colorism is its emergence through everyday language, which we will examine from the perspective of complex language development.

In behavior analysis, Relational Frame Theory (RFT) provides a framework for understanding how language networks are constructed. RFT, a theory of language and cognition, explains the development of new relations between stimuli through derived relational responding (DRR; Hayes et al., 2001).Essentially, complex language evolves through stimulus relations influenced by contextual cues. This presentation will review key concepts of RFT and DRR while offering practical examples of colorist language.

We will also discuss how behavior analytic technologies can be effectively applied to address colorism. A review of a preliminary study will be presented, highlighting how experiences of colorism may increase self-critical language, indicating a lack of self-compassion among Black women.

Attendees can expect to gain insights into the language development associated with colorism and a review of recommended interventions to mitigate its effects. This session will deepen understanding and provide actionable recommendations for future research.

Learning Objectives:

1. Participants will be able to define colorism and identify at least one affect it may have on Black women.

   
   

2. Participants will be able to define Relational Frame Theory(RFT) and identify at least one frame contributing to the acquisition and maintenance of colorism.

   
   

3. Participants will be able to identify at least two behavior-analytic strategies to reduce the impact of colorism in the clinical context.

   
   

Registration: 

Free for members and non-members!