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At the crossroads of race and migration: understanding violence risk and mental health inequities for African and Caribbean black youth in the U.S
Journal article

At the crossroads of race and migration: understanding violence risk and mental health inequities for African and Caribbean black youth in the U.S

Bertranna A Muruthi, Jose Zarate, Amanda Stafford McRell, Heather McClure, Adaobi Anakwe, Dollar Ganu and Francisca Lawson Tettevie
Ethnicity & health, Forthcoming
05 Jul 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/13557858.2026.2688763
PMID: 42402385
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Abstract

Immigrant families SDG 10: Reduced inequalities Youth violence prevention SDG 3: Good health and well-being Black immigrant youth Mental Health
African and Caribbean Black (ACB) immigrant adolescents experience unique constellations of risk factors that increase their vulnerability of both experiencing and initiating violence. Traditional disciplinary and punitive approaches are ineffective at addressing these root causes. Mental health interventions have the potential to reduce and prevent ACB adolescent violence; however, clinicians need culturally-responsive and community-informed strategies for violence prevention and advocacy. To meet this need, this paper employs Critical Race Theory and Intersectional frameworks to examine disparities in youth violence, emphasizing the roles of acculturative stress, social support deficits, and neighborhood disadvantage. This examination reveals equity-driven, culturally grounded strategies for violence prevention including increasing family support and parental monitoring of youth. Clinicians have an ethical responsibility to advocate for ACB families through authentic, trust-based engagement. Strategies for partnering with grassroots organizations and supporting efforts led by Black immigrant communities offer a pathway by which clinicians can promote meaningful and lasting change.

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