Problem
Physical characteristics, such as racial features and skin color, also may affect minority children's development, although the impact of such characteristics has not been fully studied. Spencer and Markstrom-Adams (1990) have suggested that skin color may affect development of identity and social relationships in African-American chil-dren, although they note that this possibility is seldom addressed either empirically or conceptually. Lightness of skin color is perceived as more desirable, even within groups of African-American and Puerto Ri-can children, and is associated with greater opportunity (Russell, Wilson, & Hall, 1992).
How could skin color or physical characteristics affect children's development?