Gendered racism has a negative impact on Black girls in the USA and can contribute to their adultification and the objectification of their bodies, leading to poorer health outcomes. This study sought to analyse the historical and sociocultural factors that shape this sexual objectification and adultification. Intersectionality theory and objectification theory were used to frame our examination of how gendered racial stereotypes impact Black girl’s oversexualisation and adultification, and how such experiences impact their views of the self. Data were collected through twelve focus groups involving Black girls in the USA. Three major themes were developed from the data: (1) body evaluation, (2) adultification, (3) gendered racism. Findings are discussed in terms of their implications for developing prevention programming for youth that challenges the sexual objectifying practices that may harm Black girls.
Objectification and adultification of Black girls in the USA
Culture Health and Sexuality [Epub 2026 Jun 1]. doi: 10.1080/13691058.2026.2669280.