Understanding Black identities : a qualitative comparison of intra-racial class differences in Black millennials
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Derek T. Clark (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Zachary Levenson
Abstract: Using W.E.B. Du Bois double consciousness theory, this study explores how dominant American culture affects the experiences of Black American millennials in different class positions to answer the following research question: (1) How does the concept of double consciousness apply to both Black working class and middle class millennials currently and what are its implications? Interviews were conducted among a sample of 16 adults born between the years 1981 and 1996, who self-identified their racial identity as Black and national identity as American. Participants were asked questions about their interpretations of American values and ideals, race, and whether their interpretations aligned with how they were represented in mainstream American culture. Qualitative analysis indicates that among Black millennials in the sample, double consciousness is applicable to feelings of misalignment and tension with American culture and values. Misalignment and tension were prevalent regardless of class position but class position did impact the degree to which Black millennials engaged with behaviors associated with double consciousness. Following this analysis, it is recommended that further research include a larger sample size and that the demographic focus be narrowed to better explore intersections regarding class and race.
Understanding Black identities : a qualitative comparison of intra-racial class differences in Black millennials
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Created on 5/1/2023
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Thesis
- Language: English
- Date: 2023
- Keywords
- African American, Black, Double Consciousness, Du Bois, Hegemony, Millennials
- Subjects
- African Americans $x Social conditions
- African Americans $x Race identity
- Generation Y $z United States