A DisCrit Critique of Practices for Youth With or At Risk of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Disproportionality persists with regard to the labeling of students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD). A blending of critical race theory and disability studies, or DisCrit, provides a framework to examine disproportionality. In this article, a DisCrit mindset is applied to examine how racism and ableism intersect to disproportionately marginalize children of color. A critique of assessment practices, as well as the EBD definition, from a DisCrit perspective is offered to strengthen approaches for equity. We end with recommendations for educational practices and policies and suggest areas for future research.