Public Attitudes Toward African Americans With Mental...

This paper examines the inequalities that African Americans with mental disabilities face in their daily lives. It argues that this constituency receives inadequate medical access and services, different treatment of their disability, and is highly stigmatized as compared to Whites. In order to support my argument I examine public attitudes towards blacks with mental illnesses, their depiction in the media, and contemporary issues related to the topic. I draw on specific course concepts such as ableism and use an intersectional approach to show that African Americans are not given the proper attention they deserve. In the first section of this paper, I examine public attitudes toward African Americans who have mental disabilities and how this affects their treatment options. In the second section, I explore the limited portrayal of blacks with mental disabilities in television and film. In the third and final section, I discuss recent issues regarding the lack of Black disability stu dies. By researching this topic, I hope to bring more awareness and acceptance of African Americans with mental disabilities. I also want to add more scholarship to the field, which is much needed. I. Views Towards Blacks with Mental Disorders Although several years have passed since the civil rights movement, there continues to be discrimination against people of color. This discrimination is even more prominent towards people of color who have mental or physical disabilities. MoreShow MoreRelatedAppendix I Essay1263 Words   |  6 Pagesthe years 1946 and 1964 Americans with Disabilities Act An Act to establish a clear and comprehensive prohibition of discrimination on the basis of disability. Enacted by U.S. Congress in 1990, signed inot law July 26, 1990 by President George H.W. 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