Colorism, defined as the differential treatment of individuals based on their skin tone, represents a pervasive form of bias that operates both within and across racial and ethnic groups. Unlike racism, which involves discrimination based on racial categorization, colorism functions along a continuum of skin tone, with lighter skin tones generally receiving preferential treatment and darker skin tones facing greater discrimination.
Provider: BehaviorLive — via New Jersey Association for Behavior Analysis
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Join Free →Colorism or skin tone bias is the differential treatment of individuals based on their skin tone. Colorism remains a pervasive and often overlooked form of bias with significant behavioral and social consequences. This presentation applies a behavior analytic framework to examine how colorist behaviors are learned, reinforced, and maintained across cultural contexts. Drawing from Relational Frame Theory, rule-governed behavior, and social contingencies, we will explore how colorism functions in everyday interactions and systemic practices. Attendees will be invited to consider their learning histories and professional roles in reinforcing or disrupting colorist patterns. Practical strategies for promoting culturally responsive assessment, intervention, and supervision practices will be provided. This session centers on socially significant change and invites behavior analysts to engage with bias reduction in meaningful and sustainable ways.
| Certification Body | Credits | Type |
|---|---|---|
| BACB® | 1.5 | Ethics |
| COA | 0 | — |
Dr. Danielle S. Jeudy is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral whose work spans the intersection of clinical practice, research, and social justice advocacy. Her clinical expertise encompasses residential treatment, ABA therapy, educational settings, and adult behavioral services, where she has developed a reputation for her collaborative approach and commitment to culturally responsive care. As a researcher and practitioner, Dr. Jeudy focuses on improving service delivery for adults with developmental disabilities while examining how systemic inequities impact access to quality behavioral health services. Dr. Jeudy's leadership in promoting equity extends beyond her clinical work through her service on the Association of Contextual Behavioral Science Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee and her role as a peer reviewer for the Journal of Colorism Studies. She regularly provides consultation and professional development training, helping organizations and practitioners adopt more inclusive and effective practices.Through her integrated approach to clinical work, research, and advocacy, Dr. Jeudy continues to shape the future of behavior analysis toward more equitable and accessible services for all individuals and families. When not advancing her professional work, Dr. Jeudy treasures time spent connecting with family and friends.
Dig into the research behind this topic — plain-English summaries written for BCBAs.
279 research articles with practitioner takeaways
258 research articles with practitioner takeaways
252 research articles with practitioner takeaways
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All behavior-analytic intervention is individualized. The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute clinical advice. Treatment decisions should be informed by the best available published research, individualized assessment, and obtained with the informed consent of the client or their legal guardian. Behavior analysts are responsible for practicing within the boundaries of their competence and adhering to the BACB Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts.