African American women are more susceptible to experiences of gendered racism, which is a hybrid phenomenon constructed by the intersection of racism and sexism (Essed, 1991). In order to cope with experiences of discrimination, African American women may alter their self-presentation to fit social norms. This is known as identity shifting (Jones & Shorter-Gooden, 2003). The purpose of this study is to explore the ways in which gendered racism is associated with the psychological well-being (anxiety) of African American women. The study also examined whether identity shifting can act as a buffer for the relationship between gendered racism and anxiety-like symptoms. 67 African American women (Mage= 29.14) completed an online survey via Qualtrics to assess the hypotheses that a positive relationship exists between gendered racism and anxiety, and that identity shifting will moderate the relationship. Data collection is still in progress, but preliminary results show a positive significant relationship between gendered racism and anxiety symptoms. However, identity shifting did not significantly moderate the relationship between experiences of gendered racism and anxiety. Suggestions for further research and implications will be discussed.
