A Mixed-Methods Study Exploring the African American Woman's Experiences of the Strong Black Woman Stereotype

Abstract

The strong black woman (SBW) phenomenon was explored in college-educated African American women in the Los Angeles region. Quantitative measures indicated that these women averaged high levels of stress, depression, and perceived racism. Qualitative data derived from short open-ended questions yielded eight themes describing both the positive aspects of being a SBW (being a role model for family and community, and feeling empowered), as well as its negative aspects (prejudice, internalized bias, stress, masking, self-neglect, and relational strain). Correlational and regression analyses explored the relationships among the quantitative and qualitative variables. Clinical and research implications and recommendations were discussed.