Date of Conferral
11-18-2025
Date of Award
November 2025
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Social Work
Advisor
Debra Wilson
Abstract
This qualitative study explored how middle-class Black women perceive seeking mental health treatment for depression while identifying with the Strong Black Woman (SBW) role. This study investigated how middle-class Black women perceive seeking mental health treatment for depression while identifying with the Strong Black Woman role and how they interpret this role in relation to coping with depression. Guided by a social constructionist framework, the study used a qualitative design. Eight women who identified as middle-class, experienced depression, and endorsed the SBW role participated in semi-structured interviews. Braun and Clarke’s six phase thematic analysis revealed six themes: therapy as cultural mismatch vs. liberation, faith as anchor, emotional masking, inherited strength, over-functioning, and desire for softness. Participants reported that strength norms often limited emotional openness and access to care. However, many expressed a desire to redefine strength to include vulnerability. The implications for positive social change include the potential for clinicians and advocates to promote culturally affirming care that supports emotional authenticity in Black women.
Recommended Citation
Griffin, Kendra, "Middle-class Black women, the strong Black women role, and seeking treatment for depression" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 18775.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/18775
