What Happens to a Childhood Deferred? The Implications of Early Adultification of Black Girls

• In Event: Narrating Black Girl Space and Womanhood

Abstract

What happens to a childhood deferred? Black girls often experience early adultification in educational contexts. Black women experience inequities such as over policing and harsh disciplines within education (Morris, 2016, Williams, 2021). Such uneven consequences send messages to Black girls and women that there is little for error. This study aims to illuminate the experiences of Black women’s educational journeys and discuss the lasting effects of adultification of Black girls. We conclude with recommendations for policy and praxis to avoid both the current perpetuation of early adultification of Black girls and to mitigate the lingering effects influencing Black women today.

Authors

• Tiffany Steele, University of Rochester

• Candace N. Hall, Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville

• Kaleb L. Briscoe, Mississippi State University