The Influence of Systemic Racism on Quarter-Life Crisis in The Autobiography of Malcolm X (As Told to Alex Haley)

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the influence of systemic racism on quarter-life crisis, experienced by Malcolm X, as seen in The Autobiography of Malcolm X (As Told to Alex Haley). The emphasis of this research is to find the relation between racial segregation in American society and its influence on quarter-life crisis, which is a psychological crisis of uncertainty, self-insecurity and identity confusion, occurs during emerging adulthood period. Therefore, by applying a qualitative method, this research works under Post-Nationalist American Studies and psychosocial approach as an integrated paradigm which accommodates the inter-disciplinary aspects of “self and society”. The analysis shows that racial segregation, in the field of education and job occupation, is a form of systemic racism which influences Malcolm X’s mental wellness as a young African-American. Racial segregation, in this case, is “a function of blocked opportunities” which disallows young African-Americans to develop their own competencies and to achieve their “American Dream”. In the development of his quarter-life crisis, Malcolm X manages to rebuild his new long-term commitment which contributes to the construction of his adult identity as an African-American Muslim activist.