Date
5-20-2026
Department
School of Behavioral Sciences
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)
Chair
Cari Oliver
Keywords
SBW Schema, Stereotype, Stereotype Internalization, Woman Veterans
Disciplines
Psychology
Recommended Citation
Rule, Lakeysha, "Examining Stereotype Internalization in Female Veterans" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8498.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8498
Abstract
Stereotypes reflect a specific cognitive bias shaped by the perceptions individuals hold about others or groups. Moreover, Black Americans are often overwhelmingly targeted by racial prejudice and biases. Similarly, Black women frequently face unique challenges stemming from culturally specific stereotypes, which subsequently shape how they view themselves and their role as Black women. Experiences of stereotype internalization are often correlated with numerous adverse mental/physical health outcomes, including deteriorating physical health and declining mental health. In a military culture, stereotypes signify more than mere words or ideas due to their significant occupational implications in this historically male-dominated environment. Prior research has identified a culturally specific construct, Strong Black Women (SBW) Schema, as a possible correlate of the adverse mental and physical outcomes in Black women. However, research on these associations is nonexistent within military culture, particularly among female veterans. Therefore, the current research examined associations between SBW Schema internalization and mental/physical health and well-being outcomes in Black female veterans (n=39). This research analyzed data from the Department of Veterans Affairs, collected by the Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC) from 2024 to 2025 as part of a pilot project investigating SBW Schema endorsement and outcomes in female veterans. Partial correlational analyses revealed that significant correlations exist between greater SBW Schema internalization and poorer physical health and well-being outcomes. These results provide compelling support for further investigation of the SBW Schema in military samples, while highlighting the need to develop culturally responsive care models.
