Date of Conferral

12-24-2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Dr. Susana Verdinelli

Abstract

Historically, beauty standards in the United States were rooted in White ideals, influencing media portrayals of Black women to align with White features like lighter skin and straightened hair. Although recent studies suggest a slow shift toward a more diverse representation of Black beauty, depictions in magazines still predominantly reflect mainstream Western beauty ideals, leading to potential negative impacts on Black women’s self-esteem and body image. The purpose of this generic qualitative study was to explore how young Black women, ages 18–25, perceive portrayals of Black beauty in Essence magazine. Black feminist thought constituted the theoretical basis for this study. Data were collected through semi structured interviews with 10 young Black women who were readers of Essence magazine. Thematic analysis was used to examine the responses from the individual interviews. Results of this study indicated participants’ appreciation for Essence magazine’s authentic portrayal of diverse skin tones, natural makeup, body types, and natural hair, which counter Eurocentric ideals. Participants valued the confidence in Black women embracing their identity, while also acknowledging societal pressures toward lighter skin, Eurocentric facial features, and thinner figures. The study’s findings underscore the potential for positive social change by encouraging media to adopt more inclusive representations of Black beauty, countering the pressures of Eurocentric standards. By highlighting the impact of authentic portrayals, this research can inspire media outlets to promote campaigns that support healthy self-esteem and reduce the harmful mental health effects associated with unattainable beauty ideals among Black women.

Download

Share

 
COinS