Discussing Race With Families With Young Children: Pediatric Clinician Attitudes and Practice

To describe clinician attitudes and practices regarding discussions about race-related topics with families of children aged 0 to 5 years.

The authors distributed a survey to the Reach Out and Read (ROR) medical provider network to assess clinicians' prior education, attitudes and clinical practice discussing the impact of racism on child health, racial identity formation, and development of ethnic-racial pride. The authors report item response frequencies with a sub-analysis of respondent race, ethnicity, level of training, and practice region and setting.

Six hundred fifty-two surveys with 80% or more completion rate were analyzed. Over 90% of respondents agreed that racism affects child health. Although most agreed that clinicians have a role in discussing the impact of racism on a child's health, racial identity formation, and development of ethnic-racial pride with families, the majority did not regularly do so. Barriers included lack of time and education, clinician discomfort, and fear of damaging the therapeutic relationship. Many agreed that receiving education about these topics was very important, but fewer than 25% had prior education or knew of resources. Nearly 90% agreed that books and ROR can support these discussions; 79% were interested in additional ROR training.

Although surveyed clinicians agree that they have a role in discussing race-related topics with families with infants and young children, they do not feel equipped to have these discussions. Pediatricians are interested in incorporating culturally diverse, developmentally appropriate books, and ROR to discuss issues related to race.