Multicultural Disparities in Legal and Mental Health Systems: A Consideration and Applications

Authors

  • Gargi Roysircar Antioch University New England
  • Jane Studeny Antioch University New England
  • Sarajane E Rodgers Antioch University New England
  • Jill S Lee-Barber Georgia State University

Keywords:

Ecological, contexts, Accessibility, Equality of Care, Underutilization, Advocacy

Abstract

Psychologists recognize that experiences of oppression shape negative outcomes for people and consider their role in addressing disparities and disproportionalities in mental health systems as well as in criminal justice and legal systems. Using an ecological framework, psychologists can identify the ways by which marginalization hinders access to resources at the community level. There are interactions between larger cultural norms and societal laws resulting from privilege or oppression that limit an individual’s access to community resources. Therefore, psychologists address disparities at both individual and systemic levels for low income, disability, racial and ethnic minority, immigrant, and refugee populations. To address disparities, potential applications in practice, research, and training/consultation are suggested. The recommendations for solutions to inequity are based on theories of intersectionalilty and structural stigma, as well as on implications of social justice action that brings the voice of psychology into public policy.

Author Biographies

Gargi Roysircar, Antioch University New England

Gargi Roysircar is Professor of Clinical Psychology and Director of the Antioch Multicultural Center for Research and Practice (MC Center) at Antioch University New England. 

Jane Studeny, Antioch University New England

Jane Studeny is a 4th yr. clinical psychology student and research assistant at Antioch University New England

Sarajane E Rodgers, Antioch University New England

Sarajane Rodgers a 3rd. yr. clinical psychology student and research assistant of the MC Center at Antioch University New England

Jill S Lee-Barber, Georgia State University

Jill Lee-Barber is the Chief Psychologist and Senior Director of Psychological & Health Services at Georgia State University.

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Published

2018-04-03