The stigmatization of Black physicians in the United States: a qualitative narrative analysis

Purpose Black physicians are currently underrepresented in the workforce, due in large part to stigmatizing experiences based on their racial identities. This qualitative study explores Black physicians' perceptions and experiences of enacted stigmatization and stigma consciousness through the theoretical framework of social identity theory. Design/methodology/approach Using qualitative narrative analysis, 14 YouTube videos with 20 unique informants were analyzed, in which Black physicians described their experiences of enacted stigmatization and perceptions of stigma consciousness in their workplaces. Findings Under the theme of enacted stigmatization, informants reported experiences of both formal and informal discrimination from supervisors, colleagues and patients. These experiences often accompanied a heightened sense of stigma consciousness, which ultimately led to informants leaving their jobs or leaving the practice of medicine altogether. Originality/value These findings were consistent with the theoretical framework of social identity theory, where informants struggled to break out of their stigmatized in-group as Black individuals and be seen as members of the more prestigious physician out-group. The findings highlight the importance of creating a safe, equitable work environment for Black physicians to reduce turnover, improve workplace outcomes and organizational performance, prevent potential legal action and to mitigate health organizations' diminished standing in the community as a result.