Publication Date
2025
Advisor(s) - Committee Chair
Ayaka Hisanaga-Probst, Robert Welsh, Lecretia Dye
Degree Program
Department of Psychology
Degree Type
Specialist in Education
Abstract
The current study focuses on experiences of microaggressions and the sense of belongingness among minoritized students in school psychology graduate programs. This study followed previous research that uncovered racially toxic environments in clinical psychology programs and discussed ideas to ameliorate recruitment and retention efforts (Galen et al., 2023). Participants (n = 95) in this study consisted of graduate students in school psychology programs at the master’s, specialist (e.g., Ed.S., C.A.S.), and doctoral level in the U.S., who completed an online survey about their perceptions of recruitment efforts, sense of belonging and experiences of microaggression. The findings revealed that racially minoritized graduate students reported more negative perceptions of recruitment efforts, higher levels of experiencing microaggressions, and a decreased sense of belonging compared to White/Caucasian graduate students. Subtle differences in various aspects of student and program experiences were discussed based on the findings. Continued efforts in research and program improvements will hopefully help school psychology training programs create an environment where all students can feel safe, welcomed, and appreciated.
Disciplines
Psychology | School Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Recommended Citation
Okocha, Assumpta, "DPICS, PCIT, assessment, child" (2025). Masters Theses & Specialist Projects. Paper 3809.
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/theses/3809