Date of Conferral

2-17-2025

Degree

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Yoly Zentella

Abstract

African American women’s (AAW’s) experiences of wearing natural textured hair are underrepresented in the literature. This issue, and hair discrimination more broadly, is a form of social injustice that underscores the cultural and social significance of natural hair as a symbol of heritage, identity, and resilience in African American communities. Guided by social comparison and self-concept theories, the purpose of this study was to examine how wearing natural hair influences AAW’s self-perception. The research question was: How do AAW describe their experiences of wearing natural textured hair? The qualitative method featured interpretative phenomenological analysis. Data were collected by conducting in-depth interviews with a purposive sampling of six AAW aged 18 and older who wore their natural hair at least 75% of the time over 6 months. Data analysis revealed eight themes: natural hair journey, impacts of texture comparisons on self-image, influence of others’ acceptance, impact of beauty standards, balancing of beauty standards, identity shaped by self-perception, authenticity as a pathway to well-being, and balancing of mental well-being with cultural expectations. Findings enhance the literature by highlighting the resilience of AAW in navigating hair discrimination and its effects on self-perception, and suggest the need for inclusive policies and support systems. This study’s insights may contribute to positive social change by fostering cultural understanding and resilience within African American communities. This will foster acceptance of natural hair and empower African Americans through informing development of such educational efforts as school workshops on its cultural and historical significance, reducing bias, and building pride.

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