A Qualitative Exploration of Intraracial Academic and Social Norms Among Black Students Attending Predominantly White Institutions

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Abstract

Although Black students attending predominantly White universities have fewer Black peers, their friend groups tend to be composed of other Black students (Bentley-Edwards & Chapman-Hilliard, 2015). This qualitative study draws on interviews with 32 Black students attending PWIs to understand these intraracial relationships, focusing on three major themes: Black students’ understanding of their experience in relation to Black peers, their perceptions of intraracial academic and social norms on campus, and their experiences of support and challenges within intraracial relationships. Findings indicated that shared experiences with racial discrimination on campus contributed to networks of academic and social support. Students experienced challenges with racial cohesion and cultural dynamics. Authors discuss implications for research on intraracial peer dynamics among Black students at PWIs.

Authors

• Taina B. Quiles, University of Virginia

• Seanna C Leath, University of Virginia

• Uche Chima

• Meron Samuel