Abstract

In today’s society connection with others is extremely important. Although it always has been important, after almost three years of quarantine and isolation for some, connection has changed greatly. Integrating back into a society where connection is encouraged has been tedious but not impossible. The study aimed to explore the relationship between social status and social connection among black women based on their preference for natural versus straight hairstyles. Participants were given a survey that asked them to rate their perceived positivity toward 60 images, ranging from natural hair, miscellaneous, and straightened hair. They were also asked to self-report their perceived level in society on McArthur’s scale of subjective social status along with their age. The results showed that regardless of social status, black women preferred straight hair over natural hair, which suggests that hair is an essential aspect of social connection for them. The study highlights that cultural and generational teachings within the black community link straight hair with success, leading to the preference for it over natural hair. The repeated measures ANOVA showed that hair was significant, irrespective of social status or age, with straight hair receiving significantly higher ratings than natural hair. However, the study revealed that a particular group within the measured social status categories showed higher ratings overall. Overall, the study suggests that hair type significantly impacts how black women are perceived amongst themselves, with straight hair receiving consistently higher ratings of positivity than natural hair. This highlights the need to acknowledge and embrace the diversity of beauty standards and cultural practices to promote inclusivity and diversity in our society.

Advisor

Herzmann, Grit

Department

Psychology

Disciplines

Cognitive Psychology

Keywords

Social connection, Socioeconomic status, Black Hair, Positivity rating, Black women

Publication Date

2023

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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