The influence of the “acting white” phenomenon in the achievement experiences of academically successful African American college students

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on the “acting White” phenomenon (e.g., Carter, 2006; Ford, Grantham, & Whiting, 2008b; Fordham & Ogbu, 1986), as it pertains to Black college students. Through an interview study, I gathered questionnaire based data relevant to this issue for 40 university students. From these 40 questionnaires, I chose twelve interview participants. In one hour interviews and follow up correspondence, I gathered the perspectives of these eight students on the topic of “acting White” (Ford et al., 2008b; Fordham & Ogbu, 1986). Using data derived from these focused interviews and questionnaires, I have explored the findings and relate them to the current literature relevant to gifted Black students and the “acting White” phenomenon.