Review at least two of your classmates' professional blueprints for accuracy, clarity, and professional relevance. In your posts, provide constructive, supportive feedback, along with suggestions for

Latonia Edwards

Southern New Hampshire University

PSY 442: Community Psychology

7-3 Final Project: Professional Blueprint

Dr. Laura E. Stephens, PhD

April 17, 2024

Professional Goals

My professional goal is to broaden and enhance my engagement with survivors of sexual trauma and female veterans affected by Military Sexual Trauma (MST). I envision establishing a comprehensive facility that serves as a sanctuary for these individuals, offering a safe and empathetic space to navigate the complexities of processing claims, gathering evidence, and filing disability claims without the intimidation often associated with traditional reporting channels. This initiative is not only about recovery but also about challenging and dismantling the stigmas tied to mental health and sexual trauma within Black and Brown communities. My goal is to break the cycle of intergenerational trauma, empowering survivors to embark on their healing journeys with dignity and confidence.

My work with '6ix Inc.' and the Military & Veterans Women's Coalition and community service through several non-profit military organizations exemplify my dedication to the female veteran community, providing a robust support system for those affected by MST. Leveraging my expertise, certifications, and future academic achievements in Mental Health Counseling and Psychology, I am determined to create environments that foster discovery, safety, and long-lasting healing.

In essence, my professional aspirations are driven by a desire to use my skills, passion, and experiences to bring about significant and positive changes in the lives of survivors within black communities and among female veterans. Through the principles of Community Psychology, I aim to nurture resilience, facilitate healing, and inspire enduring transformation in these vital but often overlooked groups.

Overview

Community psychology represents a distinctive branch within the field of psychology, extending its focus beyond the individual to encompass broader societal, community, and institutional influences on mental well-being.

This comprehensive approach advocates for preventive measures as well as direct interventions to address psychological issues, highlighting the significance of supportive and empathetic environments in the recovery process for individuals who have endured traumas such as sexual assault and Military Sexual Trauma (MST) (Shinn & Toohey, 2003; Landau et al., 2008). Moreover, community psychology is dedicated to unraveling the intricacies of communities and their constituents, acknowledging that an individual's behavior is invariably molded by their surroundings. Thus, interventions are designed with a keen awareness of these external factors, aiming to foster positive change by addressing the complex interplay between individuals and their environments.

The origins of community psychology can be traced back to the late 1960s when social unrest and civil rights movements were prevalent in American society (Trickett, 2009). Experts began challenging the traditional focus of psychological studies, advocating for a more inclusive approach that considered broader social factors. Community Psychology (CP) evolved in response to various social movements that have influenced its development. The Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s was a pivotal force in shaping the rights movement, inspiring CP to adopt a community-centered approach to promoting social justice and equality (Dutta, 2016).

Additionally, the Deinstitutionalization Movement emphasized the shift from institutional to community-based mental health care, underlining prevention, and early intervention strategies (Dutta, 2016). The Women's Movement of the 1960s and 1970s influenced CP to incorporate feminist perspectives and empower women (Dutta, 2016). The American Psychological Association created the Division of Community Psychology in 1965, marking the official start of this new field (Shinn & Toohey, 2003).

Moreover, the Environmental Movement highlighted the impact of environmental factors on well-being, leading to CP interventions aimed at enhancing community health through better urban design and resilience strategies (Dutta, 2016). The global social movements addressing climate change, economic inequality, and human rights have broadened CP's scope to include global issues, advocating for well-being and social justice internationally (Dutta, 2016). The history of CP is intricately linked with these social movements, advocating for systemic change and a holistic approach to address the multifaceted factors influencing mental health and well-being.

These movements have shaped the focus, methods, and goals of CP and influenced its emergence as a field distinct from traditional clinical psychology. By integrating the principles and values advocated by these social movements, CP has been able to address social contexts, promote justice, and strive for systemic transformations to enhance mental health outcomes and overall well-being.

Looking at today's society, it is evident that the conditions that initially spurred the development of community psychology are still very much present. Systemic challenges, including health inequities in minority populations, the persistent stigma associated with mental health, victim blaming, and the difficulties in reporting sexual trauma—particularly in Black and Brown communities—continue to fuel a cycle of intergenerational trauma (Lee et al., 2023; Wager, 2019). More so, survivors are often faced with intimidating experiences when visiting police stations or reporting incidents through formal military channels. For these reasons, community psychology remains as relevant as ever. (Wager, 2019)

The establishment of a comprehensive center for survivors of sexual trauma and military sexual trauma (MST) represents a pivotal alignment with the core principles of community psychology, particularly through its focus on dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health and reporting trauma within marginalized communities. This initiative is deeply informed by the principles of cultural competence in mental health care, as highlighted by Afsana Faheem's study "It's Been Quite a Poor Show," which emphasizes the critical role of cultural sensitivity in mental health service provision (Faheem, 2023, p16). By prioritizing cultural competence, our efforts not only adhere to the foundational principles of community psychology but also significantly contribute to its ongoing evolution.

Furthermore, the initiative directly addresses the urgent need for culturally sensitive mental health services, a pressing issue outlined by Faheem (2023). In parallel, the work of Lee et al. (2023) in "Addressing Intergenerational Trauma in Black Families" sheds light on the necessity of understanding historical and race-related trauma within minority communities. Our approach, which integrates cultural humility and social justice advocacy into therapeutic interventions, resonates with these insights. By acknowledging and addressing these complex dimensions of trauma and mental health within marginalized communities, our initiative not only aligns with but actively advances the principles of community psychology, marking a significant step forward in the field's evolution and in the broader effort to provide effective, culturally attuned support to survivors of sexual trauma and MST.

Application

Community psychology is a field riddled with challenges that intersect with my professional aspirations in noteworthy ways. I am committed to addressing the unique needs of sexual trauma survivors and female veterans affected by Military Sexual Trauma (MST). The crux of this commitment is the belief that healing springs from dismantling societal stigmas, breaking the pattern of intergenerational trauma, and fostering environments that advocate resilience and enduring change.

Sexual trauma is an unfortunate reality for many, particularly female veterans, and women from Black and Brown communities. Overcoming this trauma is complicated by societal biases, legal complexities, and the continuation of trauma from one generation to the next. I aim to foster supportive environments that facilitate healing and fortify resilience, dignity, and transformative recovery.

My approach has three cornerstones - overcoming societal stigma, breaking intergenerational trauma patterns, and fostering environments that spark resilience and enduring change. My efforts primarily focus on female veterans and women belonging to Black and Brown communities. These communities have to battle pervasive societal biases, a convoluted justice system, and the propagation of trauma across generations. By creating supportive environments promulgating healing and embodying the principles of resilience, dignity, and transformative recovery, I intend to tackle these challenges head-on.

I am deeply committed to challenging and reconfiguring the pre-existing misconceptions and systemic impediments that obstruct survivors' paths to recovery and justice. Utilizing my experiences with '6ix Inc.', the Military & Veterans Women's Coalition, and various non-profit military organizations, I aim to create a well-rounded support system that provides a safe haven for survivors. This place will empower survivors to initiate their healing process in an environment without intimidation and negligence, ensuring their voices are acknowledged and validated.

An integral part of this endeavor is to dismantle the widespread mental health and sexual trauma stigmas prevailing within Black and Brown communities. These stigmas further complicate the already strenuous tasks of processing claims, gathering evidence, and filing disability claims—a process already mired by the complexities of traditional reporting channels. By creating a stigma-free, empathetic environment, I wish to foster survivors' confidence in these arduous tasks and streamline their path to recovery and justice.

Breaking the cycle of intergenerational trauma and empowering survivors to seek help and manage their recovery process is also of prime importance. Moreover, my work extends beyond providing immediate support and counseling. I aim to nurture an environment conducive to enduring healing and transformation. This vision encapsulates the fundamental principles of Community Psychology—principles essential for addressing the significant challenges that survivors and overlooked veterans encounter within our community. I envision implementing these principles effectively and instigating a positive and enduring change in the lives of individuals who have suffered from sexual trauma.

My professional goals and community psychology are inseparable, especially when attempting to address societal challenges such as sexual trauma among female veterans and women from Black and Brown communities. The ethos of community psychology, which hinges on resilience and transformational recovery, forms the backbone of my endeavors. By focusing on dismantling societal stigmas, overcoming intergenerational trauma, and promoting resilience, I aim to bring about lasting change for survivors.

Community psychology allows me to address and actively combat deeply rooted societal issues. This is achieved by shifting the focus from individual pathology to collective responsibility, engaging entire communities in the fight against stigma. By initiating dialogues, implementing educational programs, and driving community-led initiatives that are sensitive to cultural and contextual nuances, we can effectively dismantle stigma from its roots.

Moreover, community psychology provides me with a comprehensive perspective on intergenerational trauma, underlining the importance of multifaceted interventions that account for individual, familial, and societal factors (Trickett, 2009). This approach to resolving trauma from a community perspective strengthens community networks, advocates for systemic change, and incorporates cultural healing practices to interrupt the transmission of trauma from one generation to the next. This way, communities can start crafting new narratives of resilience and recovery.

Furthermore, community psychology is instrumental in creating environments that foster resilience (Trickett, 2009). It promotes collaborative efforts that capitalize on community assets and leadership, ensuring that interventions are grounded in the community's experiences and needs, leading to sustainable and impactful change.

In conclusion, the holistic structure provided by community psychology is crucial in dealing with societal stigma and intergenerational trauma and in nurturing resilience within marginalized communities. Community psychologists play a pivotal role in promoting healing, breaking cycles of trauma, and cultivating environments that support meaningful and lasting change by integrating therapeutic approaches, cultural practices, and advocacy efforts.

The Future of Community Psychology

My journey as a Black woman has deeply influenced my vision for the future of community psychology, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the mental health and well-being of BIPOC communities. This vision includes creating a world where sexual violence against Black women is not only condemned but actively prevented through education, community engagement, and strict law enforcement. The personal impact of sexual violence on my life drives my advocacy, aiming to create a society where no woman undergoes similar trauma. I plan to bridge gaps between communities, fostering awareness and understanding through workshops on consent, respect, and healthy relationships.

Mental health, especially in Black communities, has been long stigmatized and enveloped in silence. I aim to shift this narrative towards openness and acceptance, creating mental health sanctuaries that offer support and resources in a stigma-free environment. This inclusive and accepting future focuses on healing, growth, and prioritizing mental health without fear of judgment. Drawing from my unique experiences and intersectionality, I see community psychology as a pivotal force in combating sexual violence against Black women. This requires a holistic, culturally sensitive approach that incorporates spirituality and acknowledges the unique struggles of Black women. Creating safe spaces for these women to share their experiences and fostering community conversations are essential to addressing broader systemic issues like racial inequalities.

As I envision the future trajectory for community psychology (CP), I see it firmly positioned at the forefront of advocating for mental health and well-being within BIPOC communities. My goal is to transform CP into a dynamic tool against sexual violence, harnessing collective efforts that leverage our communities' inherent resilience and capacity for social change. This mission includes breaking down the longstanding walls of stigma constructed from silence and ignorance, replacing them with a culture of openness and acceptance. I am committed to establishing sanctuaries where individuals can seek support on their mental health journey without facing judgment.

I believe employing a sensitive and holistic approach is paramount. This approach acknowledges the integral role of spirituality and offers tailor-made, culturally sensitive support. It is about catalyzing effective healing and growth, positioning CP as a formidable adversary against the various challenges BIPOC communities face today. Furthermore, creating safe spaces for Black women to share our experiences without fear is crucial. These spaces encourage dialogue and foster community discussions, which are essential for tackling complex systemic issues. They represent a starting point to untangle the deeply rooted aspects of racial inequality, shedding light on paths toward resolution.

Ultimately, the future of CP, as I see it, is about transforming it into a tool that not only opposes sexual violence and systemic injustice but also champions mental health and well-being for BIPOC communities. It's about leveraging our communities' resilience and capacity for social change and channeling these strengths into a force for good. The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but it is a challenge I am wholeheartedly ready to embrace, driven by a deep belief in our collective power to effect change.

My vision for community psychology is one where it serves as a dynamic tool against sexual violence impacting Black women through a collective effort that leverages our resilience and capacity for social change.

Key Concepts

Key concepts in community psychology concerning black communities encompass a range of critical themes. One essential concept is the emphasis on empowerment and resilience within black communities. Empowerment involves enhancing individuals' and communities' control over their lives and environments, while resilience focuses on adapting and thriving despite adversity Brodsky & Cattaneo (2013). These concepts are particularly relevant in addressing the unique challenges black communities face.

Another significant concept is the importance of community participation and collaboration in promoting social change and well-being within black communities. Engaging community members in decision-making processes and intervention development is crucial for fostering empowerment and ownership of initiatives (Jordan et al., 2001). This approach ensures that interventions are culturally relevant and effective in addressing the specific needs of black communities.

Furthermore, cultural community psychology highlights the significance of cultural context in psychological knowledge and interventions within black communities. Working within the cultural frameworks of diverse communities is essential for ensuring the relevance and effectiveness of practices (Jordan et al., 2001). This concept underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity and competence in addressing mental health and well-being in black communities.

Additionally, the imperative to support black youths in resisting low and limiting expectations is a key concept in community psychology concerning black communities. This involves emphasizing strengths, supporting agency, adopting culturally relevant practices, and promoting critical consciousness to challenge negative narratives and stereotypes (Debrosse et al., 2023). By empowering black youths and communities, it is possible to foster positive development and resilience.

Lastly, centering black health through a critical race framework is a critical concept that advocates for restoring power to the black community by allowing them to define their narratives and address their health needs (Volpe et al., 2019). This approach acknowledges the impact of systemic racism on health disparities and emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues from a racial justice perspective.

These key concepts in community psychology provide a framework for understanding and addressing the unique challenges black communities face. By focusing on empowerment, resilience, cultural competence, youth support, and racial health disparities, community psychologists can promote well-being, social justice, and positive change within black communities.

The concepts I identified in community psychology concerning black communities are both readily agreed upon and contentious within the field. While concepts such as empowerment, resilience, and cultural competence are generally accepted as crucial for addressing the unique challenges black communities face, there may be debates and differing perspectives on the best approaches to implement these concepts effectively.

Empowerment and resilience are fundamental principles in community psychology, and their importance in supporting black communities is widely recognized. However, the specific strategies and interventions to promote empowerment and resilience within black communities may vary, leading to discussions and debates within the field.

Similarly, the concept of cultural competence in community psychology acknowledges the significance of cultural context in psychological interventions. While the importance of cultural sensitivity is generally agreed upon, there may be debates on the most effective ways to integrate cultural frameworks into practice when working with black communities (Jordan et al., 2001). I have had multiple discussions with counterparts on whether systemic issues, bias, and micro-aggressions still exist, and if they exist, do they create enough of a barrier to hinder progress.

Moreover, the imperative to support black youths in resisting low expectations and promoting positive development is a concept that is likely to be widely accepted. However, the specific approaches and interventions to achieve this goal may be subject to debate and varying perspectives within the community psychology field (Jordan et al., 2001).

While key concepts in community psychology concerning black communities are generally agreed upon as essential for addressing social issues and promoting well-being, there may be debates and differing viewpoints on the best practices, strategies, and interventions to implement these concepts in practice effectively.

Stakeholder Perceptions

Understanding of key concepts in community psychology can vary among different stakeholder groups within the community. For instance, law enforcement agencies often interpret concepts like empowerment and resilience within black communities through the prism of crime prevention and community policing strategies (Jones‐Webb et al., 2018). They typically emphasize the importance of establishing trust and fostering collaboration with community members as essential steps toward effectively addressing safety concerns. For instance, a police department may engage in empowerment by initiating community engagement activities, such as hosting town hall meetings alongside adopting body-worn cameras and conducting de-escalation training as strategies to mitigate biases and enhance relations with black communities. (Engel et al., 2020). Despite these measures, there remains ongoing discussion regarding the comprehensive impact of such reforms in addressing systemic bias and ensuring accountability within law enforcement practices. Another outreach program is organizing police-led youth programs like the Police Athletic League (PAL) here in Georgia. PAL is a nonprofit public benefit corporation that offers youth boxing, basketball, and other sports. These initiatives are designed to promote open communication and build mutual respect between law enforcement and community members. The effectiveness of such community policing efforts in genuinely empowering black communities and enhancing resilience against crime remains a subject of discussion among experts and practitioners alike because instead of harm reduction these policies and programs can cause more harm.

Educators, on the other hand, may interpret these concepts in the context of supporting black students' academic success and well-being. They may focus on creating culturally responsive learning environments, promoting positive youth development, and addressing systemic barriers to education within black communities (Millner et al., 2019). For example, an educator developing an African American history course that highlights the resilience and contributions of black Americans may spark discussions on integrating these lessons throughout the entire school curriculum. Another example is the best way to teach the accurate history of America and why systemic issues exist today.

Business owners may perceive concepts like cultural competence and community participation as essential for fostering positive relationships with diverse customer bases and enhancing corporate social responsibility initiatives. They may prioritize inclusive business practices, community engagement, and sustainability efforts to align with the values and needs of black communities (Morsing & Schultz, 2006).

Taxpayers may view these concepts through the lens of accountability and social impact. They may expect government agencies and service providers to demonstrate transparency, effectiveness, and responsiveness in addressing community needs, including those specific to black communities (Oladele, 2021).

Overall, different stakeholder groups in the community may have varying perspectives on key concepts in community psychology concerning black communities based on their roles, experiences, and priorities. Understanding these diverse viewpoints is crucial for developing inclusive and effective interventions that address the complex challenges faced by black communities.

Systems View

Sexual violence against Black women is an entrenched societal issue requiring a comprehensive, multi-agency approach for meaningful change. The interaction of Mental Health Service Providers, Educational Institutions, and educators within the Black community each play crucial roles in addressing this issue.

Mental Health Service Providers work to improve mental health disparities, reduce stigma, and enhance mental health well-being within the Black community. Through culturally competent therapy, counseling, and community support, they aim to foster resilience, healing, and recovery for survivors of sexual violence.

Educational Institutions strive for equity, ensuring access to education, cultivating inclusive learning environments, and championing academic success. By employing culturally responsive teaching practices and providing essential resources for academic and personal growth, they aim to break the cycle of sexual violence through empowerment and education.

Educators' role is vital in creating culturally responsive learning environments and promoting positive youth development. This leads to a better understanding of systemic issues, which equips students with the knowledge to advocate against sexual violence.

However, the goals of these agencies can sometimes conflict. For example, the focus of health services on immediate care without establishing long-term support leaves victims vulnerable to prolonged psychological distress.

By employing systems thinking, we can understand the interactive dynamics of these agencies, unveiling challenges and opportunities for aligned intervention. Incorporating insights from studies like "Black Women's Experiences of Sexual Assault and Disclosure: Insights from the Margins" by Slatton & Richard and "Researching 'black' Educational Experiences and Outcomes" by O'Connor, Lewis & Mueller can enhance a holistic understanding of these systems.

To adequately address sexual violence against Black women, a systemic approach is required: one that aligns the goals, missions, and desired outcomes of all agencies, underpinned by a foundational commitment to end racial and sexual discrimination. Only through a robust, victim-centered, and culturally sensitive response can we promote the well-being and safety of Black individuals and communities.

In my community, coordinating planning and social change efforts is significantly supported by interagency associations such as the Clayton County Community Services Authority, Inc., and the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (GCADV). The Clayton County Community Services Authority is a Community Action Agency funded by Federal, State, and Local resources, dedicated to serving low-income families, the elderly, and disabled citizens across Clayton, Fayette, and Henry counties.

On a broader scale, the GCADV represents a coalition of over 50 domestic violence organizations and programs throughout Georgia. This agency is pivotal in empowering survivors, educating the public, advocating for responsive public policy, and facilitating collaboration across the state to combat domestic violence.

Both organizations are integral to the fight against sexual violence, particularly concerning black women. The Clayton County Community Services Authority focuses on developing projects that raise awareness about sexual violence, provide support services for survivors, and advocate for policy changes to better address and prevent such violence. This involves strategic planning, monitoring, evaluation, resource mobilization, and coordination with other local agencies to foster an effective interagency approach to combat sexual violence.

Meanwhile, GCADV serves as a statewide voice against domestic violence, offering crucial support in raising awareness and advocating for policies that directly tackle sexual violence against black women. As the leading entity in this area, GCADV's role in educating the public and pushing for policy reforms is vital in the ongoing efforts to protect and empower survivors.

Together, these organizations underscore a community-wide commitment to ending sexual violence, leveraging their respective strengths in service provision, advocacy, and public education to address and mitigate the issue through coordinated efforts and shared resources.

My Role in the System

In my role as a trauma-informed wellness coach and advocate, I am deeply embedded within a multifaceted system focused on community wellness, empowerment, and the specific goal of combating sexual violence against black women while advocating for improved mental health within these communities. My personal experiences as a sexual trauma survivor, disabled veteran, and black woman, coupled with professional certifications, including one from the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (GCADV), have uniquely positioned me to address these intertwined social issues effectively. This work is driven by a belief in empowerment and resilience, aimed at helping survivors use their traumatic experiences as a catalyst for positive change and providing them with the tools needed to regain control of their lives.

Our approach is culturally competent, acknowledging the diverse sensitivities and unique pressures black women and black communities face. We design strategies and interventions to respect and cater to these needs, focusing on supporting vulnerable populations. Additionally, addressing racial health disparities is a important component of our mission as we strive to challenge and dismantle the biases leading to disproportionate rates of sexual and mental health issues in black communities.

My role within a system deeply focused on the issues impacting black women, especially concerning sexual violence and mental health, is profoundly shaped by my personal journey as a sexual trauma survivor, a black woman, and a certified wellness practitioner. This system, driven by the need to address the unique challenges black women face, employs a holistic approach that seeks to challenge harmful biases, dismantle barriers, and provide culturally competent care. My involvement, both as a survivor and a practitioner, significantly influences how I interact with survivors, guiding the trauma-informed strategies I employ to foster resilience, wellness, and empowerment. I am committed to addressing the complex intersection of sexual violence, mental health stigma, and racial disparities, aiming to mitigate the disproportionate rates of these issues within black communities.

Our efforts are rooted in acknowledging the significant disparities black women face and are aimed at breaking down societal biases and advocating for improved mental health resources. This work provides a broader context to my experiences, directing my advocacy towards creating change and providing culturally competent support that is sensitive to the unique concerns of black women survivors. It is a journey that is both challenging and rewarding, filled with the goal of dismantling systems of oppression that disproportionately affect black women.

By delving into the root causes of sexual violence and mental health challenges and recognizing the intersectionality of race, gender, and trauma, our system strives to create a more inclusive and effective approach. This includes advocating for policy changes, promoting trauma-informed and culturally sensitive care, and prioritizing the healing and self-care practices of black women. Celebrating the resilience and strength of black women is central to my mission, acknowledging their tenacity and courage in overcoming challenges. I am incredibly proud to be part of this impactful journey, which provides context to my personal and professional experiences and guides my efforts in making a meaningful difference in the lives of black women and communities.

Topic of Interest

Question: How can community psychology approaches within the black community, grounded in social justice principles, effectively address systemic issues, contribute to ending sexual violence against black women and support their healing and empowerment?

Community psychology approaches within the black community, grounded in social justice principles, can play a crucial role in addressing systemic issues, ending sexual violence against black women, and supporting their healing and empowerment. Several articles and studies provided in the context offer valuable insights and recommendations for implementing effective strategies.

One key aspect highlighted in the context is the need for a more intersectional framework within the #MeToo movement. Roshanravan (2021) emphasizes the importance of centering black feminist perspectives and recognizing the varied experiences of all affected communities. This calls for a comprehensive approach that acknowledges the intersectionality of race, gender, and other social factors in addressing sexual violence.

Keys (2021) proposes a decolonial feminist approach to combat sexual violence against black women students. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of systems of oppression, such as racism and sexism, and aims to dismantle them through a decolonizing lens. By addressing the interconnected complexities of race and gender, this approach provides a more holistic response to the issue of sexual violence.

Slatton and Richard (2020) highlight the significance of understanding the interconnectedness of diverse social systems contributing to black women's experiences of sexual assault. This systems-thinking approach emphasizes the need for a comprehensive, systemic technique to address sexual assault. By considering the intersectionality of race, gender, and sexuality, interventions can be developed that effectively support black women and address the unique challenges they face.

In addition to addressing systemic issues, community psychology approaches can contribute to the healing and empowerment of black women. Jones (2008) discusses the effectiveness of culturally relevant group work in preventing depression among low-income black women. By incorporating the psychosocial and cultural realities of black women, these interventions can reduce depressive symptoms, lower stress levels, and improve their sense of control over their lives.

Furthermore, community psychology approaches can promote resilience and collective empowerment within the black community. Armstrong et al. (2022) emphasize the importance of mental health service utilization and the role of clinicians in addressing the increased vulnerabilities of black communities, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. By understanding cultural mistrust, integrating cultural norms into therapy, and increasing the number of black psychologists, mental health professionals can provide culturally competent care and support the mental health needs of black individuals.

Overall, community psychology approaches grounded in social justice principles can effectively address systemic issues, contribute to ending sexual violence against black women, and support their healing and empowerment. By adopting intersectional frameworks, recognizing the interconnectedness of diverse social systems, and implementing culturally relevant interventions, community psychologists can create supportive environments that acknowledge the experiences of marginalized groups and strive for a truly inclusive and impactful movement against sexual violence.

References

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