Through research and lived experience, we have identified three barriers that uniquely impact the healthy development of Black girls: adultification bias, criminalization, and the Strong Black Woman schema. While some groups may experience one of these, only Black women experience all three together. At The Collective Identity Mentoring, we name these barriers, explain their impact, and give our youth the tools to recognize them. Through one-on-one mentorship, peer support, and culturally affirming experiences, we help dismantle these barriers so Black girls can move forward with confidence, well-being, and the freedom to thrive.
THE ADULTIFICATION BIAS
The Adultification Bias
Adultification bias is a form of racial prejudice where Black girls are perceived and treated as older and more mature than they actually are. This perception ignores normal stages of childhood development and often results in less protection, compassion, and support. At The Collective Identity Mentoring, we work to help our youth recognize this bias, understand its impact, and develop the confidence and tools to challenge it.
THE STRONG BLACK WOMAN SCHEMA
The Strong Black Woman Schema is a set of cultural expectations that demand constant resilience, independence, and strength from Black women and girls. While these traits can be empowering, the pressure to uphold them often silences vulnerability, discourages asking for help, and can harm mental and emotional well-being. At The Collective Identity Mentoring, we create spaces where our youth can express their full range of emotions, embrace interdependence, and redefine strength on their own terms.
THE CRIMINALIZATION OF BLACK GIRLS
The criminalization of Black girls reveals that they are often punished more harshly and even criminalized for their communication styles, physical expressions, and responses to trauma. These behaviors are frequently misinterpreted through a biased lens, leading to exclusionary discipline and harmful contact with the justice system. At The Collective Identity Mentoring, we work to help our youth understand these biases, advocate for themselves, and develop strategies to navigate and challenge unjust systems.