The Negative Effects Of The 'Strong Black Woman' Stereotype | AJ+

Is the “strong black woman” stereotype adversely affecting black women and their health?

The “strong black woman” is a stereotype that’s as pervasive in media as it is in real life. But this superwoman syndrome could be adversely affecting black women’s health.

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Presented by: Imaeyen Ibanga
Edited by: Brian Joseph
Animations by: Kai Tang
Produced by: Imaeyen Ibanga
Executive Producer: Sarah Nasr

Music tracks courtesy of APM and Audio Networks.
Footage and images courtesy of AP, Reuters, Getty, Own/Harpo Productions, ABC Studios, 20th Century Fox Television, MGM, Akil Productions, Beyoncé, Blac Youngsta, Baltimore Spring Creek Productions, Chrisette Michele, Alicia Keys, Karyn White, MSNBC.

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[Kionnaallure]

I always said this stereotype hurts black women because "strong" in this context just means "you can take alot of pain" your pain and struggle is overlooked and when you speak up you're angry. Sigh...

[couponnation]

I get so tired of the media's strong black woman propaganda.

[pizzyg]

A problematic stereotype and extremely damaging!!!!

[bibleguy]

I blame this prejudice, racist society for trying to masculinize our beautiful, feminine, dainty and naturally pretty African American women!

[katydid]

Just the other day a man called me a “strong, independent black woman.” I told him to never use that stereotype to refer to me again. I’d rather be seen as weak and feminine, than strong and depressed.

[CoachDeBora]

When I decided to heal and save myself, and make that my priority, I no longer had the time, energy or interest in playing God to other grown people. I handed them over to God, knowing God's got 'em.

[theadrenalizedartist]

Finally, this is being studied and called out. Pretending to be tough as nails in every facet of life is exhausting, and I feel like it is expected of me everywhere I go. Also high on the list, people either want the highly sexualized Jezebel or the Asexual type woman...as if we can't be anything other than the two extremes...

[Cangeltibon]

Basically black women got stuck with the worst parts of male and female stereotypes, the hardworking homemaker and the silent stoic provider. Not by choice mind you, uninterrupted by colonialism blacks would be on the same plain as Indian, Asian, and European women in history with the respected positions in society in and out of the home. But slavery, segregation and systematic attacks made the “strong black woman” inevitable and it’s time we finally give it a break, independent and strong are good but it needs to be balanced with a support structure. No one person should feel that it’s their sole responsibility to hold everything together.

[BuddyL]

This is why Representation Matters: a myopic media representation shortchanges all the various other interpretations that exist.✊🏿

[mcdonaldsmcchicken]

Getting rid of this mindset is a good thing. We sometimes associate being feminine as weak and its not. Its okay if we arent able to do it all. The "I don't need no man" mindset is so toxic. Just let a man lead for once. Its not bad once you just let go.

[jieubanks]

Women are not men. All the attributes you described are the expectations placed on men. At a 76% fatherless rate the women are having to take on both rolls. Humans are not built to fill both rolls. If you want to stop having the expectations and responsibilities of men, then get the father back in the home.

[DavidGreen-ocnv]

Yes it is hurting. Some come across as loud and offensive. That pushes most if not all men away.

[Knowthyself]

I want to be fragile sometimes too. Its very hard in this world 😢😢😢

[innerpowerup]

Always be honest about your limitations. Don't be a hero for others and fail yourself. Man or woman people move from appreciating it to expecting, to resenting you when you just can't do it anymore.

[BiblicallyHandle]

Single Motherhood caused this stereotype. Feminine too.
No one addresses that.

[taehyungoppa]

I honestly wish I could protect Black women. Y'all deserve so much better, I'm so sorry y'all have to go through this

[lydiaperera]

I’m aSouth Asian Canadian woman and I can relate to the superwoman complex too. In the way that I have been treated and certain interactions I’ve had...

[FarmerYuHaden]

Black women are never silent as a group never

[KingRudy]

The reason why they're breaking down and having so many problems is because they are essentially doing a man's job.

[luiseliasramirezidona]

“Hollywood”, tv, movies always stereotype people
Do not believe the BS
Love each person for who they are individually