Presentation Information

Microaggressions and Racial Trauma During Childbirth

• Speaker: Monnica Williams , PhD, ABPP
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 ACM CPD, 1 ACNM CEU, 0.1 Midwifery CEU

Abstract:

This presentation will provide an overview of relevant cultural factors for African Americans and other stigmatized minority groups, with an emphasis on understanding race-based trauma and its impact on childbirth experiences. I will discuss various forms of racism that occur in medical settings that contribute to health disparities in people of color, including racial microaggressions. Constructs that cause and perpetuate race-based stress and trauma will be reviewed, including White privilege, stereotypes, and racial discrimination. I will describe the various facets of race-based trauma, including the experience of historical, cultural, community, and individual trauma, and how these may or may not fit into our current psychiatric nomenclature. I will provide examples of patient-provider interactions that are helpful versus harmful in the context of childbirth and women of color’s reproductive issues.