Self-Isolation, Avoidance, and Negative Self-Talk: African American Doctoral Students Experiencing Maladaptive Behaviors

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 27
  In Roundtable Session: Gender, Race, and Ethnicity Issues in Graduate Education

Abstract

This phenomenological study explores how nine African-American doctoral students experience and respond to race and racism at a PWI in the Midwest. Authors draw from socialization theory to frame this study. Findings suggest that African-American doctoral students exhibit maladaptive behaviors such as self-isolation, avoidance, and negative self-talk as coping mechanisms to deal with hostile campus environments. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.

Authors

• Deniece Dortch, The George Washington University

• Jonathan Dollar, George Washington University

• Joy Jack, George Washington University