The Role of Cultural Stigma in Suppressing Anger among African American Women: A Literature Review

This literature review examines the role of cultural stigma in fostering anger suppression among African American women, drawing on scholarly works from 2017 to the present. Rooted in historical stereotypes such as the "angry Black woman" and the "strong Black woman" schema, cultural stigma imposes expectations of emotional restraint and unwavering resilience, often at the cost of mental health. Key themes include the perpetuation of these stereotypes through media and interpersonal dynamics, their intersection with racism and sexism, and resulting behavioral health outcomes like depression and anxiety. Studies highlight how stigma leads to internalized anger, self-silencing, and barriers to mental health services, while protective factors such as spirituality and community support offer partial resilience. By synthesizing qualitative and quantitative research, this review underscores the need for culturally sensitive interventions to dismantle stigma and promote healthy anger expression. Implications for clinical practice, policy, and future research are discussed, emphasizing intersectional approaches to address disparities in African American women's behavioral health.