The Strong Black Woman Stereotype and Identity-Shifting Among Black Women in STEM

• In Event: Black Women in Education: Shifting the Gaze

Abstract

An intersectional framework was used to investigate the relationships between the Strong Black Woman (SBW) trope, gendered racial identity centrality (GRIC), identity shifting (IS), and mental health among 289 Black women (Mage = 29.46 years, SD = 10.74) in STEM. Hypotheses included: 1) a significant positive relationship between endorsement of the SBW stereotype, GRIC, and IS; and 2) the relationship between SBW and IS is moderated by mental health such that more depressive (a) and anxiety (b) symptoms will result in a stronger relationship between stereotype endorsement and IS strategies. Results indicate partial support for the first hypothesis, and the second hypothesis was not supported. The importance of examining and addressing these constructs among Black women in STEM are discussed.

Authors

• Naomi Hall-Byers, Winston-Salem State University
  Presenting Author

• Danielle Dickens, Spelman College
  Presenting Author

• Kelly A. Minor, Winston-Salem State University
  Non-Presenting Author