Adamson, Karine (2022) ‘Strength for survival’ : exploring the influence of the Strong Black Woman (SBW) concept on the experiences and management of depression. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

This study aimed to explore how Black women in the UK experience and manage depression, in relation to the SBW concept and how this influences help-seeking behaviour. Eight individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The participants’ experiences and management of low mood was characterised by three main themes: origin of strength, upholding strength in relation to the coping strategies used and cultural awareness. Findings suggest that Black women engage in coping strategies that are consistent with the SBW concept when low in mood (e.g. isolation, keeping busy) which can be barriers to help-seeking. However, seeking support was dependent on trust and others having a shared understanding of their difficulties as a Black woman. Findings suggest a potential for raising awareness of the SBW concept in mental health services through educational workshops, which will equip practitioners with the knowledge needed to support Black women with depression, potentially increasing help-seeking behaviour. Furthermore, mental health practitioners should liaise and collaborate with community organisations to promote mental health campaigns. This will not only raise awareness of the influence of the SBW concept on mental health but will build a bridge of trust in the community.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Depression, Mental -- Physiological aspects, Women, Black -- Mental health services -- Great Britain, Community mental health services -- Great Britain, Women, Black|xMental health -- Great Britain, Women, Black -- Psychology, Strong black woman stereotype, Discrimination in mental health services -- Great Britain, Minorities -- Medical care
Official Date:	3 March 2022
Dates:	Date Event 3 March 2022 UNSPECIFIED
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Department of Psychology
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Fox, Claudine
Extent:	144 leaves
Language:	eng

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