Shades of Impact: Navigating Public Regard, Psychosocial Well-Being, and Internalized Racism in Black College Students at PWIs (Poster 17)

• In Event: Friday Poster Session 4:55
  In Invited Poster Session: 2024 AERA Undergraduate Fellows Research Poster Fair

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of public regard and internalized racism on
psychosocial outcomes, perfectionism and imposter syndrome, among Black college students at
predominantly White institutions (PWIs). Utilizing a cross-sectional, correlational research
design with regression analysis, the research examines the relationships among public regard,
internalized racism, and psychosocial outcomes. Surveys will be administered to approximately
120 Black college students, incorporating validated measures for each variable and demographic
data.
While preliminary results are pending due to ongoing data collection and analysis, it is
anticipated that a significant relationship will emerge between public regard and perfectionism,
as well as imposter syndrome, among Black students at PWIs. It is hypothesized that individuals
with a more positive public regard within their racial identity may exhibit lower levels of these
psychosocial outcomes. Additionally, the study aims to explore the moderating effect of
internalized racism on the relationship between public regard and psychosocial outcomes,
suggesting that higher levels of internalized racism may amplify the impact of public regard on
the participants psychosocial well-being.
This research seeks to illuminate the challenges faced by Black students navigating PWIs
and emphasizes the necessity of an inclusive and equitable environments to support their
academic and personal development. By addressing existing gaps in literature, this study
contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the psychosocial experiences of Black college
students in predominantly White spaces. Additionally, it advocates for tailored interventions to
promote holistic well-being and success of Black students attending PWIs.

Author

• Myahkia Watson, Oklahoma State University