Multiple Resistance Strategies: How African American Women Cope with Racism and Sexism

Abstract

This qualitative study of a community sample of 196 African American women aimed to identify the coping strategies that Black women use to manage the stress of racism and sexism. The findings reveal that they use multiple resistance strategies: (a) three ongoing internal coping strategies (resting on faith—relying on prayer and spirituality; standing on shoulders—drawing strength from African American ancestors; and valuing oneself—sustaining a positive self-image); (b) one ongoing external coping strategy—leaning on shoulders, or relying on social support; and (c) three specific coping strategies (role flexing—altering their outward behavior or presentation; avoiding—diminishing contact with certain people and situations; and standing up and fighting back—directly challenging the source of the problem.