Understanding and Overcoming Online White Supremacist Harassment

Krystal Kavita Jagoo, a dedicated social worker focused on anti-oppressive practices, has contributed her expertise to several Canadian academic institutions. Her work, including the essay “Inclusive Reproductive Justice,” is featured in the Reproductive Justice Briefing Book.

Essential Insights

• Half of Black adolescents reported encountering online racial harassment during the study period.
• Persistent exposure to white supremacist harassment online may worsen racial health disparities.
• Developing targeted resources is critical to support individuals facing online white supremacist abuse.

The detrimental impact of white supremacy on mental health is well-established. To effectively address these challenges, understanding the environments where racism occurs is vital. A recent study in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry revealed that Black youth endure higher rates of online racial harassment compared to their white peers.

The Brookings Institution highlights that racial minorities experience diverse forms of cyberbullying and receive less empathy from bystanders, leading to reduced intervention during online harassment incidents.

Given the profound mental health consequences for BIPOC individuals, intensified efforts to dismantle white supremacy online are urgently needed.

The Psychological Burden of Online Racism

This research analyzed 18,454 daily reports from youth across the United States between March and November 2020, a period marked by heightened racial tensions.

Results indicate that Black youth faced increased online racial discrimination, which was linked to deteriorated mental health on the day of and the day following exposure, a pattern not observed among white youth.

Researchers note the timing coincided with widespread protests following the murders of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, possibly intensifying feelings of helplessness among Black youth.

While white youth also reported some racial harassment, its limited effect on their mental health may be attributed to their societal power and privilege, which can buffer against feelings of threat.

Resilience and Coping in BIPOC Communities

Howard Pratt, DO, Behavioral Health Medical Director at Community Health of South Florida Inc., observes, “We are currently in a highly polarized environment where online communications often include racial hostility.”

He explains, “Individuals may not realize the deep harm their hateful online messages cause. For someone barely holding on, these words can be overwhelming.”

Dr. Pratt advises those affected by online racism to seek mental health support and encourages parents to monitor their children’s online interactions carefully.

“BIPOC individuals have long managed racial abuse both offline and online through strategies such as ignoring, engaging constructively, or responding assertively,” he notes.

He adds that the internet offers tools like blocking and filtering to help create safer online environments.

Howard Pratt, DO

“Racism is often inherited from family beliefs without factual basis, which can deeply affect individuals’ self-esteem and worldview.”

Dr. Pratt emphasizes that changing entrenched negative beliefs is challenging, especially in environments saturated with prejudice.

Advancing Beyond Awareness to Real Change

Ariel Landrum, MA, LMFT, Clinical Director at Guidance Teletherapy, points out, “Despite increased awareness about racism, the prevalence of daily racist experiences continues to rise.”

She stresses that awareness is only the initial step; addressing resistance to change and engaging in meaningful action are crucial.

Landrum highlights the importance of mindful communication online, especially since adolescents are highly impressionable and can be deeply affected by negative comments.

“Today, many individuals can find therapists and support groups that understand the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities,” she adds.

Ariel Landrum, MA, LMFT

“I empower clients to utilize digital platform controls to cultivate safe and supportive online spaces.”

She notes that people respond to online racism in diverse ways, from privacy measures to active advocacy and creating inclusive communities.

The Hidden Dangers of Anonymity in Online Racism

Renetta Weaver, LCSW-C, neuroscientist and clinical social worker, states, “Racism continues to harm BIPOC communities, with online racism potentially amplifying risks due to the anonymity of perpetrators.”

She observes that social media platforms often fail to adequately moderate hate speech while restricting language important to BIPOC communities.

Weaver encourages spending time in online spaces that align with one’s values and highlights the formation of supportive groups like Black Therapists Rock and Clinicians of Color as vital safe havens.

Renetta Weaver, LCSW-C

“Communal healing, whether through churches or support circles, provides essential nourishment for the mind and soul.”

Emotional Impact and Support Strategies

Brian Ragsdale, MA, PhD, Associate Dean at Walden University and clinical psychologist, explains, “Racism manifests online just as it does in person, often with less social support for victims.”

He highlights that online platforms can amplify bigotry, as seen in tragic events like the Buffalo supermarket shooting targeting Black individuals.

Ragsdale underscores the importance of building strong social support networks and engaging in uplifting activities to foster resilience.

Brian Ragsdale, MA, PhD

“Connecting with others who understand and share coping strategies is crucial to overcoming the pain caused by online racism.”

The Urgency of Dismantling White Supremacy

Wizdom Powell, PhD, MPH, psychologist and racial trauma expert, affirms, “Research confirms that online racial discrimination adversely affects the mental health of Black youth, increasing risks of anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms.”

She points out the lack of adequate clinical training to address racism-related mental health issues and stresses the need for culturally sensitive interventions.

Powell advocates for community-based healing initiatives and digital mindfulness tools to support emotional regulation and radical healing.

Wizdom Powell, PhD, MPH

“Youth deserve accessible, dignified mental health services that meet them where they are in their journey toward healing.”

She notes that resilience factors such as spiritual coping, racial pride, and advocacy can buffer the effects of racism.

Powell emphasizes that adolescence is a vulnerable period, making supportive interventions especially critical.

Final Thoughts

Online racial harassment disproportionately affects BIPOC communities, with serious mental health consequences. Seeking culturally affirming support and fostering inclusive environments are key steps toward healing and empowerment.

For further information on combating white supremacy and understanding its psychological impacts, explore trusted mental health resources and community support networks.

1. Del Toro J, Wang MT. Online racism and mental health among Black American adolescents in 2020. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2022. doi:10.1016/j.jaac.2022.07.004

2. Brown M, Elizondo S, Ray R. Combating racism on social media: 5 key insights on bystander intervention. Brookings Institution. Published Dec 1, 2021.

By Krystal Jagoo
Krystal Kavita Jagoo is a social worker dedicated to anti-oppressive practice.

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