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Dissertation
An exploration of protective and risk factors that influence the development of resilience among Black girls
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
May 2018
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/D8M950
Abstract
Black women's issues and obstacles are more complex than most other races due to historical racism, sexism, and poverty (S. A. Thomas & González-Prendes, 2009). However, cultural expectations of strength in Black women fuel the myth of the strong Black woman that compels women to push for unrealistic levels of self-sacrifice, self-denial, and ensuing emotional distress (Beauboeuf-Lafontant, 2007). The combination of powerlessness and strength presents a problematic paradox for Black women. The purpose of this case study is to explore risk and protective factors within the lives of Black girls who attend a large urban high school and examine how those factors affect the development of resilience. Based on cultural, historical, and societal factors, Black adolescent girls living in an urban environment while attending high schools struggle with the development of resilience. A combination of risk factors (poverty and exposure to violence) and protective factors (self-efficacy, belief system, and support system) are considered when developing resilience. This research addressed the following research questions: (a) How do Black high school girls perceive themselves as resilient? and (b) According to Black high school girls, what are the perceived risk and protective factors that had an impact on the development of their resilience? Through the use of a survey, participants were asked questions regarding resilience in addition to the perceived risk and protective factors. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and Excel to determine significant factors pertaining to resilience. One-to-one interviews were used to gather deeper insight into the risk and protective factors that may influence the development of resilience. Qualitative data were coded using In Vivo and descriptive codes to identify patterns and themes. As a result of this study, the researcher now understands resilience as a social ecological construct. This ecological perspective suggests that, when providing a person with opportunities to realize his or her potential, interventions must involve those mandated to help, such as social workers, nurses, and educators, as well as those expected to provide support, namely the person's family, peers, and community.
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Details
- Title
- An exploration of protective and risk factors that influence the development of resilience among Black girls
- Creators
- Denna M. Hewitt - DU
- Contributors
- Joy C. Phillips (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- x, 140 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Education (1997-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 8072; 991014632190204721