Date of Award

Spring 5-6-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Sociology

First Advisor

Veronica A. Newton

Second Advisor

Mathew Gayman

Third Advisor

Tomeka Davis

Abstract

Racial microaggressions are daily verbal and nonverbal injustices toward people of color. They are viewed as subtle forms of racism and racial discrimination, that take the form of micro-assaults, micro-insults, and micro-invalidations. While people of color, especially Black people can experience racial microaggressions within any social space, microaggressions are more likely to occur in predominantly white spaces. Prior research has shown Black students and faculty at predominantly white institutions experience racial microaggressions and their effects, including physical and mental health. school and work outcomes, and overall well-being. However, little research shows the effect of both populations at the same institution. This research is important for understanding the similarities and differences between the two groups at the same institution, and to better direct resources that will enable Black students and faculty to successfully navigate the institution. Using 18 in-depth semi-structured interviews, this dissertation captures the experiences and mental health consequences of Black students and faculty experiencing racial microaggressions at a large, predominately white, private university in the Southeast United States. Additionally, this study uses racial battle fatigue and critical race theory to explore educational and work experiences and analyzes the impact of racial microaggressions and associated mental health for students and faculty, respectively. These findings reveal similar themes to previous literature surrounding the effects of racial microaggressions on Black students and faculty at PWIs, while also highlighting new themes such as powerlessness and feeling unwanted and experiences from both groups and showcasing the similarities of such experiences by students and faculty at the same institution.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/36963578

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Available for download on Friday, October 25, 2024

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