ABSTRACT
SUMMARY. Skin color distinction is a well-kept secret in African American communities. This paper analyzes the psychological effects of this phenomenon using the framework of symbolic interactionism and "interpersonal theory." It suggests that the hue of one's skin tends to have a psychological effect on the self-esteem of African Americans, although that assertion is not borne out in the literature. Strategies are proposed for addressing skin color discrimination with persons with very dark skin. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: getinfo@haworthpressinc.comJ
KEYWORDS. Skin color, color, self-esteem, psychological, skin tone
If you're white you're right, if you're brown stick around, but if you're black stay back.
