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Resisting the Strong Black Woman Schema through Emotional Expression, Personal Care Prioritization, and Community Building Among U.S. Black Women on Reddit

Pohl, V.P. (2024) Resisting the Strong Black Woman Schema through Emotional Expression, Personal Care Prioritization, and Community Building Among U.S. Black Women on Reddit.

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Abstract:Introduction: This study examines how U.S. Black women utilize Reddit to resist the Strong Black Woman (SBW) schema, a cultural ideal that promotes emotional suppression, constant caregiving, and unwavering self-reliance. While the SBW image has historically symbolized survival and strength, it often places a psychological burden on Black women, contributing to emotional isolation and burnout. This research specifically examines how Black women resist this schema through emotional expression, personal care prioritization, and community building. Methods: A qualitative design was employed using reflexive thematic analysis. Data were extracted from publicly accessible Reddit posts and comments where Black women discussed their experiences with strength, vulnerability, and emotional well-being. These discussions occurred in subreddits such as r/BlackLadies, dedicated to Black women, where users either explicitly self-identified or engaged in conversations focused on Black women’s experiences. The analysis focused on capturing themes in how these users resist by challenging or redefining the SBW schema in their everyday lives. Ethical considerations included the use of only anonymized, publicly available data. Results: The analysis revealed three major themes: Breaking Free from Silence, Choosing Myself Without Apology, and Healing Through Community. These themes illustrate how Black women on Reddit resist the SBW schema by expressing emotional vulnerability, setting personal boundaries, and finding validation through collective support. Particularly significant were reflections of burnout, intentional self-care practices, and the healing power of shared experiences within online communities. Conclusion: This study shows that Black women use Reddit to resist the Strong Black Woman schema by challenging its emotional demands and reshaping what strength means in their everyday lives. The findings emphasize how digital spaces can foster care, connection, and culturally rooted forms of healing.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:77 psychology
Programme:Psychology MSc (66604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/107598
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