
Mindfulness for Racial Healing: Overcoming Bias
Learn how mindfulness meditation can help identify and interrupt implicit bias for racial healing and equity. Practical steps and guided practices included.
Learn how to balance accountability with compassion when addressing child behavior issues. Discover strategies to see beyond disruptive actions.
As a psychologist, I've learned from countless clients—both children and adults reflecting on their upbringing—that disruptive behavior often stems from unseen emotional struggles. While accountability matters, compassionate understanding is equally crucial for helping kids thrive.
Many children labeled as "difficult" or "manipulative" are actually coping with:
- Undiagnosed anxiety or stress
- Feelings of insecurity or lack of belonging
- Unmet emotional needs (reassurance, respect, connection)
My co-author Joe shared a powerful childhood experience:
- At 8, he had diagnosed anxiety disorder
- After a sibling accidentally injured him, he went to school with a visible head injury
- His teacher dismissed his pain as "just anxiety," reinforcing feelings of mistrust
- The incident confirmed his fear: adults saw him as a "liar" rather than a child in distress
Harvard research (Gilbert & Malone, 1995) shows we often:
1. Attribute behavior solely to personality ("they're just difficult")
2. Overlook environmental/emotional factors
3. Block empathy through these assumptions
Instead of: "They're just acting out for attention"
Ask: "What unmet need might be driving this behavior?"
Reference:
Gilbert, D.T. & Malone, P.S. (1995). The correspondence bias. Psychological Bulletin, 117, 21-38.
Learn how mindfulness meditation can help identify and interrupt implicit bias for racial healing and equity. Practical steps and guided practices included.
Learn how mindfulness techniques can transform relationship conflicts into opportunities for growth and deeper connection. Discover fair fighting strategies.
Discover research-backed strategies to encourage generosity in children. Learn how environment, age, and emotions influence sharing behavior.