Date of Conferral

7-25-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Sandra Rasmussen

Abstract

While existing studies have explored the manifestations of adultification bias in various contexts, there is a significant gap in the literature regarding research on the emotional well-being of African American women who have navigated this bias. The purpose of this study was to understand how adultification bias manifests in the lives of African American women, to illuminate the nuances of how adultification bias unfolds in the lives of African American women, and to examine its presence within their emotional realms. The theoretical frameworks of adultification bias and emotional well-being ground the study. The key research questions centered on the specific narratives of African American women regarding adultification bias and the intricate relationships these narratives have with their emotional well-being. The participants were ten African American female individuals aged 18 or older who had experienced adultification bias. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. Six themes emerged from the thematic analysis: Premature Parentification, Emotional Suppression, Systemic Inequities, Psychological Toll, Resilience of Faith, and Breaking a Cycle. The findings of this study have significant implications for positive social change, as they aim to inform policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals about the detrimental effects of adultification bias, ultimately fostering a more supportive environment for African American women.

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