“Look at them… wasting that good, white skin”: Exploring messages of white privilege in Black Americans’ family discourse

Abstract

Grounded in social constructionism, the present study explored messages Black adults received about white folx and white privilege from family members in childhood and beyond. We conducted retrospective interviews with 19 self-identifying Black adults. Four primary themes emerged from participants’ accounts: (1) Black folx must work harder than white folx, (2) Black folx must be respectful to white folx, (3) Black folx must be cautious when dating or associating with white folx, and (4) Black folx will not get away with as much as white folx. Findings demonstrate how Black adults make sense of their racial identity via family messaging about white folx and white privilege. The current study offers unique theoretical and practical implications. Theoretically, findings illuminate the connection between social constructionism and racial socialization in Black families. Practically, findings reveal ways professionals can increase awareness and understanding of Black folx’ experiences of racial identity development in family contexts. Limitations and future research directions are discussed.