It is interesting but not surprising that Racism will not be listed as a mental disorder in the soon to be release DSM-V. Almost invariably prominent psychiatrist and psychologist such as Dr. Carl Bell and Dr. Alvin Poussaint strongly suggest the inclusion of Racism as a mental illness. Nevertheless, it will not be included. The arguments against identifying Racism (even in its most extreme forms) as a mental illness state that it is a social problem not a mental disorder or racist beliefs are a part of the norm because so many people are racist. Arguments are also made that having racism as a mental disorder would make it easier for persons committing racists acts to claim an "insanity" defense. Well, these arguments and the fact that Racism will not be included in the DSM-V demonstrates the reality that Racism is institutionalized. It has been and still is the norm in America.
Adding Racism in to the DSM-V would have been a major step in de-institutionalizing racism. The reality is that it is only a matter of time before it is de-institutionalized. America is becoming more and more diverse and the non-white population is reproducing at a faster rate than the white population. But what is also speeding up the process of de-institutionalization of racism is the fact that more and more of our children are growing up in a world that is less isolated and more appreciative of the richness of cultural diversity. Our children are exposed to more alternative ways of looking at the world. They are growing up knowing that the America and world we live in is much more than just Black and White. However, as this process of the natural de-institutionalization of racism progresses, those that are afflicted must find ways to hide and disguise their affliction. But it doesn't take much to see through the disguises. It's like an alcoholic who is in denial or better yet a nicotine addict (by the way both of which are listed as mental disorders in the DSM-IV and will be in the DSM-V) that continues to smoke in spite of the harm that he or she suffers.
The Tea Party has given persons afflicted with racism a place of refuge and enabling of their affliction. It is crystal clear to me that their cries for a more free America (which on the surface sounds commendable) are actually based in a fear that the America of old is changing. The America where white Americans have privileges above other groups. The America where one can pretend that poverty and injustice does not exist (and according to Michele Bachmann was only in the past). The America that would be fair to everyone if it wasn't for government intervention.
The first problem is that the image of America by the Tea Party folk is an illusion. That America does not exist, has never existed, and will never exist. Yet, based on their illusion they were recently able to hold the Congress hostage and threaten severe financial damage to millions of working Americans (the very same Americans they claim to be representing). The question is: How did this happen? Why is it happening? I think Chris Rock said it best. He compared the Tea Party and their activities to a toddler or small child just before they fall asleep. They become very irritable, loud, and unruly and then... silence.
The Tea Party claims to be fighting for freedom just as those who participated in the "Boston Tea Party" did. But their main actual function is to provide a means for persons afflicted with racism to publicly express their racism without it being called racism. However, when you look closely at their behavior in relation to our President who is African American, it becomes very clear. Because Racism is institutionalized and we have a Black President, it becomes acceptable to make statements like "our primary objective is to get rid of Obama at any cost" or "stopping Obama from being successful is job one." President Obama could have a plan that would create millions of needed jobs, but the Tea Party would find a way to be against it. For a person afflicted with Racism having an African American President is unacceptable. For them it is a sign that America is going in the wrong direction. They feel compelled to reverse the process no matter what; even if it means hurting all Americans along the way. And being afflicted with Racism they would not hesitate to sacrifice segments of the population that are not a part of their "In Group". The people outside of their group are not really "true Americans" (such as President Obama). Their view of America and the world is extremely myopic and isolating. Fortunately, they will be "sleep" soon. The reality of the culturally diverse country that America has become will soon overtake their illusion of America that is rooted in the affliction of Racism.
The DSM-V will not include racism as a mental disorder, but I bet the DSM-VI will.
No comments:
Post a Comment