Black College Students’ Experiences with Microaggressions and Colorblind Racism: A Qualitative Descriptive Phenomenological Study
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Authors
Marrow, v
Issue Date
2026-02
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
microaggressions , colorblind racism , Black college students , Educational Leadership & Learning Lifelong
Alternative Title
Abstract
The problem addressed by the study is Black college students experience microaggressions and colorblind racism at Historically and Predominantly White institutions, resulting in declines in academics, ethnic identities, and psychosocial health. Research in the study focused on the lived experiences of Black students with microaggressions and colorblind racism at Historically and Predominantly White Institutions. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive phenomenology study was to understand Black college students’ descriptions of experiences with microaggressions and colorblind racism related to academics, ethnic identities, and psychosocial health at HWPIs. Key findings included Black students’ descriptions of environmental microaggressions, systemic discrimination in administrative policies, cultural bias in the classroom, obligatory diversity or tokenism, and pressure to conform to Whiteness. While there are many implications for Black students being exposed to sustained microaggressions and colorblind racism at historically and predominantly white institutions, academic, ethnic identity development, and psychosocial implications are crucial areas for higher education institutions' administrations to address to ensure positive experiences, degree completion, and success for Black college students.