Racism and Racial Identity Development

Counseling programs have recognized the importance of preparing coun­selors to become multiculturally competent within recent decades. Research on racist attitudes has found that more overt forms of racism has declined with a more subtle form surfacing. Are White counselors aware of their racist attitudes within the cross-racial counseling dyad? This study examines the processes that contribute to racism, racist attitudes, racial identity develop­ment and race salience within cross-racial counseling relationships. A focus of the research considers race salience and the racial profile of the White coun­selor. The analysis helped to answer the questions: - What does the racial profiel of a White counselor look like?- What is the relationship between ra­cist attitudes and White racial identity development in White professional counselors?- How important is race to White counselors when working with Black clients? The book speaks to professionals in Counseling, particularly practicing counselors, psychologists, clinicians and psychiatrists. Researchers in Counseling Psychology, Counselor Education, and Social Work are likely to consider this book of interest.