Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Date

2021

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Leadership & Policy Studies

Committee Chair

Derrick Robinson

Committee Member

Steven Nelson

Committee Member

Sheron Davenport

Committee Member

Ladrica Menson-Furr

Abstract

This study examines the motivating factors for Black female, first-generation doctoral students. The critical problem I found was that little is known how Black female doctoral students persevere to completing their doctoral degrees. Therefore, this study sought to identify factors that influence first-generation Black females to pursue and complete a doctorate. I approached the study through the theoretical lens of Womanism. Womanism is defined as a theory based on Black womens lives experiences, works to change negative images of Black women, and restores a balance to the community through a lens of spirituality. In chapter 2, I identified the critical literature on the topics of (a) historical perspective of Black women in America, (b) first-generation students, (c) how peak experiences affect educational attainment, and (d) previous studies on this group. The study was conducted with ten Black females who self-identified as first-generation scholars who had completed or were completing their doctorates. An open-ended interview protocol was used to allow participants to answer the questions as they felt appropriate. Four significant factors were identified from the data. First, there is a significant lack of confidence in first-generation, Black females entering a doctoral program. Secondly, schools attended matter. Racism was present in the PWIs attended and most participants indicated that if there was the possibility of completing their doctorate at an HBCU, they would have done so. Thirdly, parental support is crucial to the success of Black female, first-generation students. Fourthly, all participants had a strong will to fight it out and complete their degree. No matter the obstacles, they were determined to not give up. They persevered and are now thriving.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest

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