How Racial Battle Fatigue Impacts Black Women Graduate Students: A Photo-Elicitation Study

• In Event: Black Women on College Campuses

Abstract

Using photo-elicitation methodology, we explored how eight Black graduate students are impacted by racial battle fatigue in the context of a predominantly white university. Black graduate students captured photos in response to the question: How does racial battle fatigue impact you as a student (academically, socially, and emotionally)? Students then completed a photo reflection form and participated in a focus group interview to make meaning of their experiences. We conducted inductive content analysis to analyze students’ photo reflections and related focus group discussion. Preliminary analysis revealed five ways that racial battle fatigue impacted students: (1) using an invisible backpack; (2) needing to compartmentalize; (3) experiencing internal and external consequences; (4) protecting their peace; and (5) engaging in role-switching.

Authors

• Kristen J. Mills, The Ohio State University
  Presenting Author

• Stephen John Quaye, The Ohio State University
  Presenting Author

• Neal McKinney, The Ohio State University
  Presenting Author

• Hunter V.J. Jones, The Ohio State University
  Presenting Author