Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Brian Ragsdale

Abstract

The distinction, categorizing, and hierarchical ranking of African Americans can be traced back to the enslavement of Africa Americans in the United States. There has been limited exploration on the origins of color consciousness among African Americans. Further, there is limited exploration on the in-group interactions of African Americans, perceptions of self-esteem, and experiences with psychological distress with skin tone as a mediating factor. Inquiry concerning the origins of color consciousness can lead to more effective cultural competence among mental health professionals and also treatment modalities equipped to address the unique experiences that African Americans face. The Black Racial Identity Model was used to examine the racial identity development of African Americans as they come to accept or reject their culture and skin tone, evaluate the influence of Western society on racial identity development, and address the internal conflicts associated with racial identity development. Through the usage of semi-structured interviews of 3 male and 7 female African Americans of various skin tones, this phenomenological research study’s focus explored the origins of skin tone perceptions among African Americans, in-group interactions, perceptions of self-esteem, and experiences with psychological distress. Participant responses were centered around the participant being forced to focus on who they were and how society would view them within the context of their skin tone. These findings contribute to social change by improving cultural competence among professionals who work with African Americans, treatment outcomes of African Americans, and introducing platforms to change the narrative regarding colorism within the African American community.

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