Comparing Perceptions of Experiences of Young African American Girls in the US

• In Event: Victimization: Issues of Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Sexuality

Abstract

Objective: This study, primarily engaging young adults aged 18 to 24 through focus groups, seeks to delve into and contrast their views, experiences, beliefs, values, and thoughts on the potential adultification of black girls. Method: The research incorporates focus groups with both African American women and men. Analysis of the data will use Atlas.ti software for qualitative data management to uncover epidemic codes, trends, and themes within the responses. An initial list of etic codes has been prepared, featuring themes such as victimization, coping strategies, resorting to physical violence for self-defense, and the propensity to adultify others. Findings: Several themes emerged, including expectations within the family, disparate treatment, the concept of white femininity, a tendency to be “seen but not heard,” perceptions of being “loud” and “boisterous,” and a conflicting image of maturing prematurely while also being viewed as underdeveloped. Implications: The findings aim to enlighten parents, educational institutions, and legal professionals, encouraging a reevaluation of their perspectives to foster improved trajectories and outcomes for African American girls. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to research strategies that reduce the likelihood of African American girls becoming entangled with the legal system.

Author

• Sherie Sam, Prairie View A&M University