Date of Conferral

2-18-2026

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Tracy Jackson

Abstract

The problem examined in this study is how colorism affects Black families. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the lived experiences of Black women and the colorist messages they received from family members, how those messages were internalized, and the messages perceived effects. The conceptual framework for this study was based on the colorist-historical trauma framework, and data were obtained through individual interviews with Black women ages 22–70, from various socioeconomic backgrounds and selected through purposeful sampling. A multiple case study approach was used to examine similarities and differences among the participants. A thematic analysis was used, and five main themes arose from the data: (a) types of colorist messages, (b) racial socialization and racist socialization, (c) roles of mothers and other mothers, (d) the effects of colorist messages, and (e) self-acceptance and empowerment and resistance. The results revealed the presence of internalized oppression among participants, a form of psychological harm that manifests as experiences of rejection, symptoms of depression, and diminished self-esteem. The findings of this study indicate that the intergenerational transmission of colorist messages continues to be a significant issue within Black families and the Black community. Conducting longitudinal studies is recommended as these designs can provide more comprehensive insights into how colorist messages evolve and influence individual identity over time. The findings have potential implications for positive social change by pointing to the value of increased awareness and targeted interventions to foster empowerment and resistance for Black women and their families.

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