Vicarious Racism: Pediatric Mental Health Minute Series

Vicarious racism is defined as the secondhand exposure to the racial discrimination and/or prejudice directed at another individual. Exposure to vicarious racism is irrespective of the race of the indirect target. In order for an exposure to racism to be considered vicarious, the unintended victim must be cognizant of someone else experiencing racism.

Scope in Pediatrics

• Racism is an important driver of health and disparities in health. 
• Vicarious racism is a type of racism, where the victim is indirect. 
• Children and adolescents are aware of racism, even experienced vicariously. 

Teaching Points

• The prevalence of vicarious racism among children and adolescents is unknown. 
• Vicarious racism is transmitted via media, school, peers, family, and other sources.  
• Vicarious racism may have an important impact on multiple aspects of health.