| This study examined the impact of colorism on dark skinned African American women's self-esteem, and their resiliency to its negative effects. While studies have been conducted concerning colorism and African Americans, few have explored its direct impact on dark skinned females' self esteem (Alford, 1997; bell, 2003; Neal & Wilson, 1989; Parrish, 1944; Russell, Wilson, & L. Hall, 1992; Thompson & Keith, 1992). Furthermore, even fewer researchers have examined and defined the experience of resilience in this context. Subjects were recruited through an email, which was circulated within African American communities throughout California using the researcher's social and professional contacts. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and data was analyzed through open and axial coding. While experiences of dark skinned African American women vary significantly from one individual to the next, a common dual internalization process of colorism (negative self-image) and resilience (positive self-image) emerged and is discussed. |
