Self-Identity: A Key to Black Student Success

Many Black students opt out of postsecondary education programs due to feelings of microaggressions, psychological distress, cultural mistrust, and a loss of a sense of self-worth. Self-identity can be instrumental in addressing obstacles that hinder the academic success of Black doctoral students in counselor education programs at predominately White institutions (PWIs). The relationship between positive self- identity, academic success, and the psychological well-being of Black students is explored through a literature review. When Black students strongly identify with their cultural heritage, there is an increase in their self-esteem, self-efficacy, and academic motivation. This phenomenon is important to the academic and professional development of Black students at PWIs. The authors present recommendations to address the disparities of Black doctoral students in counselor education programs. Strategies for counselor education programs and Black student recruitment and retention in counselor education doctoral programs are discussed as well as implications for further research.