Acceptability and Feasibility of a Pilot Multifamily Group Intervention for Fostering Positive Racial Identity

Adolescence represents a critical period of development for forming a sense of self. Though many studies have focused on the negative effects of racism and discrimination on the identity development of Black youth, little research has been conducted on the protective nature of culture and racial socialization. Fewer studies describe interventions for healthy racial socialization. This study seeks to address this gap by evaluating the acceptability of a pilot multifamily group intervention focusing on positive racial socialization. Three adolescent and caretaker families took part in this pilot program. Acceptability and feasibility were measured through attendance rates and scores on satisfaction questionnaires completed by all participants. Findings suggest that the group was well-received as evidenced by attendance rates and feedback. Both youths and parents demonstrated strong attendance, rated the intervention highly, and expressed that the group both facilitated and increased confidence in discussing race, pride, and coping with discrimination. This study is the first multifamily group intervention aimed at improving racial pride in adolescents to our knowledge and opens the door to the development of similar interventions.