Date

12-16-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Stephanie J. Phillips

Keywords

misogyny, gender inequality, oppression, patriarchy, discrimination, gender discrimination, socio-emotional competencies, socio-emotional development, adolescence, Black, American, women, Black girls, Black church

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological study explored Black women’s perceptions of misogyny, patriarchy, and gender discrimination within Black American Christian churches. While research has examined adolescent social and emotional development in relation to religion, little attention has been given to how negative religious experiences shape psychological development. This study addressed that gap by examining how systems of oppression are encountered from adolescence through adulthood. Fourteen Black women ages 35–60 were recruited through social media and participated in 60–75-minute interviews. Using reflexive thematic analysis, six themes emerged: Misogyny as Restriction and Silencing; Long-term Emotional and Social Impact of Misogyny; Patriarchy as Normalized Male Authority; Witnessing Patriarchy in Today’s Church; Gender Discrimination as a Persistent, Unequal System; and Resisting Gender Discrimination through Resilience and Calls for Change. Collectively, these themes illustrate how oppressive ideologies shape identity, belonging, and social involvement across developmental stages. Theoretically, the findings extend intersectionality research by demonstrating how religious doctrine can reinforce or challenge oppression, and they contribute to Black feminist scholarship by centering the voices of Black women in religious contexts. Practically, the study highlights the need for inclusive church leadership, culturally informed scriptural interpretation, and counseling approaches that account for intersections of race, gender, and religion.

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