Date of Award
2007
Document Type
Research Paper
First Advisor
David Volckmann
Abstract
The Achievement Gap is a continuing phenomenon in the United States. There is growing concern for the constant underachievement of ethnic minorities in comparison to their European-American counterparts. The current literature review has addressed an aspect of this phenomenon by researching the literature on racial socialization, academic self-esteem, and academic attainment of African American youth. Successes and failures are outlines in the literature review for a complete understanding of possible solutions. Thorough examination found that proactive Afrocentrism, the interalized African American identity based on pride and positive beliefs in one's culture and traditions, is essential for the achivement of African American youth, both academically and elsewhere. Equally important for African Americas is the belief that they are personally accountable for their academic success. If there are beliefs that racial barriers are salient, African Americans have learned to dissociate their self-esteem, leading to a lowered drive for academic success. Implications for parental and community techniques are suggested, which could potentially enhance the academic success of African Americans, until social and political changes are made.
Recommended Citation
Eng, C. N. (2007). Academic Attainment and Self-Esteem of African Americans: A Review using Racial Socialization as Method for Success. Retrieved from https://poetcommons.whittier.edu/scholars/243