Colorism, the Black Elephant in the Room: Helping Black Women Mitigate Psychosocial Harm with the B.E.T.T.E.R. S.E.L.F. Framework.

Colorism is a harmful phenomenon that can impact an individual's psychosocial functioning, especially for Black women. The B.E.T.T.E.R. S.E.L.F. Framework (BSF) is a clinical practice tool designed to help Black women mitigate the harm caused by colorism while improving psychosocial well-being. Research shows that Black women experience more adverse effects of colorism, like lower self-esteem and poorer health outcomes. This model provides a safe and curated space for Black women to share and explore their experiences with colorism in therapeutic settings that have often been overlooked. Colorism-Informed Clinicians (CIC) provide support and validation, helping heal the harm caused by colorism. Grounded in principles of Black Feminist Theory (BFT) and Narrative Therapy (NT), the BSF actively supports Black women in fostering their 'better self.' A fictional case vignette will illustrate how the BSF can be used in therapy to enhance psychosocial functioning. The BSF is a culturally responsive clinical framework that aims to acknowledge and heal the ongoing impact of colorism.