The “Strong Black Girl” Dilemma

Abstract

This article explores the mental health of a group of young Black undergraduate women during the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and gendered anti-Black racism in the U.S. Drawing on intersectionality as a theoretical framework, the research participants reflect on how race and gender interact to shape their struggles and coping strategies during a period of racial unrest and a global health crisis. With support from the African American Policy Forum (AAPF) and using youth participatory action research, the student researchers undertook a qualitative study utilizing focus group discussions to answer the question, How did the dual pandemics impact the mental health practices of young Black women student researchers? The article analyzes their written reflections on their mental health and self-care practices, including barriers and bridges to community and professional mental health support. The research holds implications for scholars and practitioners interested in intersectional research and ethics of care in higher education, as well as mental health advocates committed to protecting Black girls and young women.