Mia Smith-Bynum

Mia Smith-Bynum is Professor and Chair of Family Science at the University of Maryland School of Public Health, where she directs the Black Families Research Group. A clinical psychologist with PhD from University of Virginia and postdoctoral training at University of Georgia, she leads research on African American mental health, racial socialization, and parent-adolescent communication.

Her work investigates parenting practices, racial identity development, and mental health disparities impacting Black families. Recent studies focus on LGBTQ+ competency in mental healthcare, caregiver preparation of children for racial discrimination, and ethnic-racial socialization in educational settings.

Analysis of her publications demonstrates consistent examination of racial trauma protective factors, clinical competency development, and culturally responsive assessment methods. Her research integrates community perspectives to address mental health disparities through evidence-based interventions.

Smith-Bynum has received funding from NIMH and NICHD, and holds leadership roles including Past Chair of SRCD's Black Caucus. As APA's inaugural Senior Director for Science Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (2021-2023), she advanced initiatives like the Journal Article Reporting Standards on Race, Ethnicity & Culture.