From Black-ish to Blackness

Abstract

Prior research shows consumption of Black information affects the way people think. More specifically, it influences general racial group attitudes. However, the expectations about the amount of Black information and deeper understanding of its effect on racial identity development remain unclear. Using a unique survey data set, with large oversamples of Blacks, this article explores whether the amount of Black information consumed influences Black identity development. The findings show Black information sources positively affect racial identity development—creating a sense that race is a more important aspect of the individuals’ definitions of self (i.e., racial centrality). The flip side, however, is greater consumption of Black information decreases public regard, prompting Blacks to believe other groups have a more negative feeling toward them. Thus, Black media plays a dual function in racial identity development—both positive and negative.