Keywords

STEM, Physics, Women, Black Women, Graduate School

Abstract

This research study is part of a larger study that examines the experiences of Black women in physics graduate programs to identify priorities for departmental change initiatives to remove structures that keep out and/or push out Black women. This research also reinforces the ongoing necessity to raise awareness about the impact of stereotypes on how Black women are perceived and how stereotypes affect the matriculation of Black women in physics graduate programs. Black women represent the lowest percentage of students in physics graduate programs and often contend with stressors like microaggressions, bias, and stereotype threats that impede their success and well-being.

Employing the Photovoice research method, we collected photos representing their journey in their physics PhD program from 13 participants who were either currently in or recently attended graduate physics programs at U.S. institutions. Additionally, we conducted individual semi-structured interviews with each participant and focus group interview sessions to allow for the elaboration and consolidation of common themes. Our goal is to offer the participants the opportunity to provide the strategies and recommendations they deem most effective in supporting Black women in physics programs from their firsthand experiences and voices.

We found that negative stereotypes severely impact Black women in physics graduate programs. They carry the persistent burden of navigating through their programs while tending to their speech, behavior, and other personal characteristics to avoid the threat of being stereotyped. Conversely, to survive in environments that restrict them from the privilege of showing up as their authentic selves, they sometimes inadvertently impose stereotypes on themselves. These findings along with discussions about the differences between HBCU institutions and their PWI graduate programs reveal how Black women struggle to find a sense of belonging and adequate academic and personal support in physics PhD programs.

Completion Date

2024

Semester

Summer

Committee Chair

Chini, Jacquelyn J.

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Physics

Format

application/pdf

Release Date

8-15-2024

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Doctoral Dissertation (Open Access)

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Accessibility Status

Meets minimum standards for ETDs/HUTs

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