Exploring the Role of Race in Black Males' Sense of Belonging in Medical School: A Qualitative Pilot Study.

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative pilot study was to investigate the role of race (and racism) and sense of belonging for Black men in medical school. A single research question guided this exploratory project: How do Black men in medical school describe their experiences? Analyzing interview data from 8 Black male medical school students revealed frequent encounters with racial discrimination and prejudice. Results show that race adversely affected their academic and social experiences and diminished their sense of belonging in medical school. Consequently, they faced difficulty connecting with White peers and faculty, racist stereotypes, and racial microaggressions that stigmatized them as "out of place," unqualified, or unusual. Implications for policy, practice, and minority medical student success are highlighted.