UNCOVERING THE CORE SELF: LISTENING TO BLACK ADULTS IN CANADA WHO ATTENDED PREDOMINATELY WHITE SCHOOLS

A person’s perception of their experiences impacts how they perceive themselves. These perceptions shape how they behave, think, and act, as well as the value that they place on their core self (Chimbganda, 2017; Massaquoi, 2004; Spencer et al., 1997). In this study, I explored how Black adults who attended predominantly White schools in Canada perceive themselves at the core of their identity. The Phenomenological Variant of Ecological Systems Theory (Spencer, 2018) and The Listening Guide (Gilligan, 2015) supported the study’s design. By attending to participants’ voices (N = 3), deep insight into the complexity of identity and self-perception emerged. Patterns of tensions were revealed, and psychological distress was evident. Forms of resilience and resourcefulness also surfaced. I invite clinicians to pay close attention so that they can further develop their understanding of their Black clients.