Monday, February 9, 2026

Healing Through History: The Work of Dr. Joy DeGruy


In the field of social work and psychology, few names carry as much weight in the discussion of intergenerational trauma as Dr. Joy DeGruy. For over three decades, she has served as a researcher, educator, and "truth-teller," focusing on the deep-seated psychological impacts of systemic racism and chattel slavery on African American communities.

A Journey of Academic Excellence

Dr. DeGruy’s personal and professional history is rooted in a rigorous pursuit of understanding human behavior. Born in Los Angeles, she faced early skepticism from those who doubted her potential—a narrative she countered by earning a string of advanced degrees:

  • Bachelor of Science in Communication (Portland State University)

  • Master of Social Work (MSW) (Portland State University)

  • Master’s in Clinical Psychology (Pacific University)

  • Ph.D. in Social Work and Social Research (Portland State University)

Her doctoral dissertation, titled "African American Male Youth Violence: Trying to Kill the Part of You That Isn't Loved," laid the groundwork for her most famous theoretical contribution.

Major Contribution: Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome (PTSS)

Dr. DeGruy is best known for developing the theory of Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome (PTSS). This framework suggests that centuries of chattel slavery, followed by systemic oppression and the absence of an opportunity to heal, have resulted in multigenerational adaptive behaviors.

Key components of PTSS include:

  • Multigenerational Trauma: The transmission of trauma through generations.

  • Adaptive Behaviors: Beliefs and actions developed to survive a hostile environment—some of which are resilient and positive, while others may be self-destructive in a modern context.

  • Internalized Racism: The psychological impact of living in a society that historically viewed African Americans as inferior.

Beyond theory, she developed the African American Male Adolescent Respect Scale, a tool designed to help practitioners understand how bias affects the treatment of Black youth in public systems.

Published Works

Dr. DeGruy’s writings serve as both academic resources and practical guides for healing.

  1. Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome: America's Legacy of Enduring Injury and Healing (2005): Her seminal work that explores the intersection of history and psychology.

  2. Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome: The Study Guide: A companion book designed to help individuals and organizations transform negative behavioral patterns into positive ones.

  3. Journal Articles & Chapters: She has authored numerous refereed articles on violence victimization, racial socialization, and culturally responsive intervention.

Recognition and Legacy

In 2023, the American Psychological Association (APA) awarded Dr. DeGruy a Presidential Citation, noting that her work has been cited over 1,700 times in peer-reviewed literature. Today, she continues her mission as the President of Joy DeGruy Publications and the Executive Director of the non-profit Be The Healing, Inc.

"Healing begins by simply telling the truth. Truthfulness is the foundation of all human virtues." — Dr. Joy DeGruy

Sources

  • Dr. Joy DeGruy Official Website (joydegruy.com)

  • American Psychological Association (APA) - 2023 Presidential Citation

  • Wikipedia - Joy DeGruy & Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome

  • AAE Speakers Bureau - Dr. Joy DeGruy Biography

 

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