The Trauma of Being Black in America: Understanding Narcissism and Self-Objectification Through a Scientific Lens
Artist-Lyle Ashton Harris In America, the Black experience has been shaped by a complex web of systemic racism, discrimination, and historical trauma. For centuries, Black individuals have been subjected to dehumanization, violence, and exploitation, which have had profound psychological impacts. Among the myriad ways this historical trauma manifests, one lesser-explored outcome is the development of narcissistic traits and self-objectification. This article explores how the Black experience in America, rooted in trauma, contributes to these psychological phenomena, drawing upon scientific research to unpack the intricate interplay between identity, trauma, and mental health. The Legacy of Trauma: Historical and Ongoing Stressors The trauma experienced by Black individuals in America is both historical and ongoing. The legacy of slavery, Jim Crow laws, segregation, and on...