Internalized racism and its effects on African American women, May 2017

Using the Afrocentric Perspective and Social Learning Theory this research study explored how internalized racism affects African American women. More specifically, it examined the effect of internalized racism on socioeconomic status and self-esteem of African American women. Prior research showed that internalized racism can contribute to decreased self-esteem and play a role in African American women's lives that have lower socioeconomic status. Findings revealed that internalized racism does influence self-esteem and affects Social capital of African American women, which contributes to a decline in socioeconomic status. The researcher discussed and provided recommendations for future social work policy, research, and practice on the topic of internalized racism in African American women.