We see her holding everyone down. Showing up. Staying strong. But who’s checking on her?
In this episode of MAQ Musings: Conversations Unveiled, Marquita unpacks the weight of being labeled “the strong Black girl”—a title often rooted in survival but laced with silence, burnout, and invisibility.

We talk about how generational expectations, cultural norms, and internalized pressure have created a script many of us never agreed to—but still follow. Drawing on research from the American Psychological Association, we explore how Black women and girls are more likely to suffer from emotional suppression, unaddressed trauma, and “superwoman syndrome,” all while being praised for their strength.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the origins and impact of the "Strong Black Woman" trope

• The connection between unacknowledged emotional labor and mental health disparities

• How to rewrite the narrative with softness, support, and self-permission

Referenced Research:
Beauboeuf-Lafontant, T. (2009). Behind the Mask of the Strong Black Woman: Voice and the Embodiment of a Costly Performance. Temple University Press.
Woods-Giscombé, C. L. (2010). Superwoman Schema: African American Women’s Views on Stress, Strength, and Health. Qualitative Health Research, 20(5), 668–683.
American Psychological Association. (2021). Ethnic and racial disparities in mental health treatment.

Disclaimer:
This podcast episode is intended for informational and reflective purposes only and does not replace professional mental health support. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to reach out to a licensed therapist, counselor, or mental health provider.