Episode 178: African-Centered Psychology with Dr. Jonathan Mathias Lassiter

In Episode 178, Dr. Jonathan Mathias Lassiter shares his journey, exploring his identity as a Black same-gender loving man, his experiences with sickle cell anemia, and his professional path as a psychologist and author. He discusses the impact of his heritage, the significance of sharecropping in his family's history, and the importance of understanding intersectionality in mental health. Jonathan also highlights his challenges in predominantly white academic institutions and his commitment to uplifting Black voices in psychology and literature. In this conversation, Jonathan discusses his experiences with racism in clinical psychology, the significance of Black psychology, and the impact of white supremacy on the field. He explores the intersectionality of Black sexual and gender-diverse communities, emphasizing the need for culturally specific spirituality in mental health. He also delves into African-centered psychology and optimal conceptual theory, advocating for a holistic understanding of well-being that aligns with spiritual and communal values.

Contact:

https://www.jonathanmlassiter.com/

Episodes Referenced:

Episode 176  Religion, Spirituality, and Health with Dr. Janise Parker

https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-176-religion-spirituality-and-mental-health/

Episode 98: Black Liberation Psychology with Dr. Evan Auguste

https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-98-black-liberation-psychology-a-conversation-with-dr-evan-auguste/

Articles Referenced

Lassiter, J. M., Garrett-Walker, J., Anwar, K., Foye, A. S., & Follins, L. D. (2023). Black sexual and gender diverse scholars' contributions to psychology. American Psychologist, 78(4), 589–600. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0001149

Lassiter, J. M., Brewer, R., & Wilton, L. (2020). Toward a Culturally Specific Spirituality for Black Sexual Minority Men. Journal of Black Psychology, 46(6-7), 482-513. https://doi.org/10.1177/0095798420948993