Why So Much Ado About a Hairdo? Examining How the Hair Choices of Black Women Vary by Occupation

Abstract

To better understand negative stereotypes and biases against natural Black hairstyles (e.g., afros, braids, dreadlocks), this study examines the hair style choices of Black women working in four occupational groups (finance, medicine, law, and technology). Using literature on identity shifting, professional identity, and professional appearance norms, we predicted variation in the hairstyle choices of Black women employed in these four occupations. Results indicate Black women technology professionals were significantly more likely to wear natural hairstyles than any of the other three occupations. Black women lawyers were significantly less likely than either physicians or women in technology to wear natural hairstyles. As predicted, the more conservative and formal the work environment, the more likely Black woman adjust their hairstyle to mirror white standards of what is viewed as professional.