This study examined the impact of colorism on dark skinned African American women's self-esteem, and their resiliency to its negative effects. While studies have been conducted concerning colorism and African Americans, few have explored its direct impact on dark skinned females' self esteem (Alford, 1997; bell, 2003; Neal & Wilson, 1989; Parrish, 1944; Russell, Wilson, & L. Hall, 1992; Thompson & Keith, 1992). Furthermore, even fewer researchers have examined and defined the experience of resilience in this context. Subjects were recruited through an email, which was circulated within African American communities throughout California using the researcher's social and professional contacts. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and data was analyzed through open and axial coding. While experiences of dark skinned African American women vary significantly from one individual to the next, a common dual internalization process of colorism (negative self-image) and resilience (positive self-image) emerged and is discussed.
Table of Contents Abstract .iv Dedication v Acknowledgments. ...vi Chapter I: Introduction 1 Purpose of Study 2 Chapter II. Review of the Literature 3 Historical Perspective 3 Colorism and Dark Skinned African American Women 11 Concept of Self-Esteem 14 Self-Esteem and African Americans. 17 Self-Esteem and Colorism 19 Self-Esteem and Women 23 Conclusion. 25 Resilience 26 Defining Resilience 26 African Americans and Resilience 31 Women and Resilience. 34 Conclusion 36 Chapter III. Methodology 38 Research Question 38 Overview of Research Paradigm 38 Method 39 Participants 40 viii