Ready to Lead!? Findings from the School Counselor Antiracist and Social Justice Self-Efficacy Scale

• In Event: Advancing Antiracist and Social Justice Practice in School Counseling

Abstract

Professional school counselors are well-positioned to recognize and dismantle racist systems that block opportunity for Students of Color. However, a recent ASCA report (2022) highlights barriers that impede their effectiveness in this domain, such as a lack of training beyond multicultural competence and limited administrative support/resources for DEIJ work. These and other factors can limit the extent to which counselors feel capable of performing tasks that increase social justice, cultural responsiveness, and antiracist practices. Panelists report findings from their study which explores the psychometric properties of the School Counselor Antiracist and Social Justice Self-Efficacy Scale, an instrument that assesses school counselors’ perceptions of their ability to perform antiracist tasks. Findings reveal distinct factors in which counselors report their perceived self-efficacy on social justice and antiracist school tasks. Panelists will (1) reflect on these findings, (2) discuss factors that impede or promote counselor self-efficacy, and (3) outline practical implications for professional school counselors and counselor educators.

Authors

• Cassandra Denise Edwards, American University

• Jonelle Gordon, American University

• Katherine J. Blaesing, American University

• Tershundrea Branch, Sam Houston State University