Author

Lorraine Cruz

Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Graham, Steven

Area of Concentration

General Studies

Abstract

This thesis uncovers the embeddedness of US western conceptual systems and psychological research, on Black studies from the early 1930’s to late 1960’s. Research on the Black psyche during this time (1950’s) reflected assimilationist racial ideologies of Blackness held by the State. As this relationship is explored, conceptual & methodological flaws are displayed as contributors of the “self-hate” or “damaged” image concluded from Black identity research. The construction of the “damaged black psyche” thesis is examined through its role in the overturning of the “separate but equal” doctrine in the Supreme Court case Brown v. Board Education of Topeka. Ultimately this thesis examines such factors and their interplay through discussing trends within the field and the ways in which US western thought effected concepts of the Black self-esteem.

Share

COinS