PhD student University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work
This study explores the relationship between monoracism, multiracial microaggressions, and mental health outcomes among mixed-race individuals in Japan. Findings from a national survey project reveal significant psychological distress, identity struggles, and social exclusion, highlighting the urgent need for affirming mental health support, social awareness, and policy advocacy.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
Examine the impact of microaggressions, monoracism, and multiracial microaggressions on mental health, identity struggles, and social alienation among mixed-race individuals, with a focus on Japan’s unique context and its global implications.
Analyze how Japan’s monoracial framework defines national identity, systematically excluding mixed-race individuals while commodifying multiracial identities, particularly those with White ancestry, within broader East Asian racial hierarchies.
Explore practical applications of the findings in social work across micro (direct practice), mezzo (community engagement), and macro (policy advocacy) levels, emphasizing affirming interventions, knowledge mobilization, and systemic change to address racialized exclusion and mental health disparities.
