Date of Conferral

6-4-2024

Date of Award

June 2024

Degree

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Marlon Sukal

Abstract

African American women who retired or currently work in senior leadership roles within federal law enforcement agencies continuously deal with various biases. However, there is limited qualitative research of African American women in senior leadership. Therefore, the purpose of this interpretive phenomenological study is aimed to uncover the reasons behind the disparate and discriminatory treatment experienced by these women and explore opportunities. Fourteen African American women were interviewed to obtain information related to the central research question. Results revealed three themes and three subthemes (1) Mental and spiritual welfare; the subthemes emerged were: (a) self-confidence, (b) leveraging relationships, and (c) training opportunities. (2) Stagnation of African American senior female leaders; the subthemes emerged were: (a) Black feminist thought theory, (b) Intersectionality, and (c) Glass ceiling theory. (3) Value of mentorship and support; the subthemes emerged were: (a) mentors, (b) leadership support, and (c) networking. The study investigated the potential impact of diversity and inclusion on promotional opportunities for African American women in senior leadership while bridging the representation gap. Drawing upon intersectionality theory, Black feminist thought theory, and the glass ceiling theory, the study delved into the challenges faced by African American women in senior leadership positions (e.g., GS-15 and Senior Executive Service roles) within the federal law enforcement. The findings and recommendations could impact social change by increasing awareness of diversity and equitable representation of African American women in senior leadership and senior executive service roles within federal law enforcement agencies.

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