ORCID ID

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6404-8551

Date Awarded

2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Department

Education

Advisor

Janise S. Parker

Committee Member

Craig S. Cashwell

Committee Member

Natoya H. Haskins

Abstract

Research has limitedly explored how colorism shapes the mental health and well-being of South Asian women across the diaspora. The purpose of this hermeneutic phenomenology study was to understand how South Asian women experience colorism and how these experiences shape their mental health and well-being. A total of 14 participants were interviewed. Semi-structured interviews and an artifact symbolizing experiences of colorism served as the methods of data collection. Critical Race Theory and Womanism were employed as the theoretical framework and the lens in which data was analyzed. A total of six main themes emerged in the study. The themes and subthemes for each were: (1) Perceptions of Beauty Standards (Fairness as the Beauty Standard and Family as Influential Sources), (2) Understanding Colorism vs. Racism (Skin Tone Discrimination with South Asians, Internalized Anti-Blackness, Racialized Experiences, Understanding One’s Privilege), (3) Engagement in Strategies to Maintain/Modify Skin Tone (Avoiding Sun Exposure and Engaging in/Learning About Skin Lightening Behaviors), (4) Prominence in Shaping Self/Well-being (Negatively Shapes Sense of Self, Emotional/Mental Well-Being, and Learned to Embrace Self), (5) Learned to Navigate Colorism Experiences (Self-Directed Support Strategies, Reliance on Formal Supports, Friendships as a Source of Support, and Seeking Support), (6) Prominence in Shaping View of Others (Changed View of Others and Advocating for Others). Implications and limitations are addressed. Keywords: Colorism, South Asian, diaspora, mental health, well-being

DOI

https://dx.doi.org/10.25774/w4-m0qw-4g81

Rights

© The Author

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