Insurmountable Odds: Black Females Resiliency in a Culture of Suicide Statistics

Abstract

Death by suicide is a problem of epidemic proportions in the United States of America. In 2018, 50,351 people died by suicide, ranking the United States 27th in the world for suicide rates (Suicide Rates, p. 1). Nationwide, Black females have historically had the lowest suicide rates across any other culture, race, sex, ethnicity, and gender (Facts and Statistics, 2018).This study was done to discover whether there is a trait that Black females possess internally that allows for resiliency, or whether there are external factors that play a role in the low rates of suicide among Black females. Literature review revealed a variety of factors that have been shown to be protective when distinguishing ways that Black females cope with negative experiences in their lives, both internal and external. This study sought to better understand the lived experiences of Black females. Using an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) study, the researcher interviewed six Black females to access what strategies and support systems were utilized to assist them through emotionally trying times in their lives. These Black females shared their personal experiences and how they overcame obstacles in their paths. There were four superordinate themes that were identified when interpreting the interviews of these females: Inner Strength and Will, Family Values and Morals, Faith and Belief in God, and Having or Being a Mentor to Others. It is difficult to measure that single individual factor that allows Black females to remain resilient; nevertheless, these interviews may have guided us towards finding some of the protective factors that may be applied across all