Honors College Theses
Publication Date
4-1-2025
Major
Nursing (BSN)
Release Option
Open Access
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Nikiya Lewis
Abstract
Between 1999–2002 and 2018–2021, the maternal mortality rate in the United States increased by 144% from 9.65 to 23.6 deaths per 100,000 live births. Although women of all races are affected by maternal mortality yearly, it is especially prevalent in black women. In the United States, black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than non-black women. Despite advanced medical technology and ongoing research, black women are continuing to die because of pregnancy at an alarming rate. Many studies suggest that discrimination and implicit bias - defined as subconscious feelings, attitudes, prejudices, and stereotypes an individual has developed due to prior influences and imprints throughout their lives are contributing factors to this racial disparity. The purpose of this thesis project was to explore Black women’s perceptions and experiences of racial bias during maternity care. The findings align with existing literature that emphasizes the disproportionate maternal health disparities faced by Black women due to systemic inequities and implicit biases in healthcare settings.
Recommended Citation
Braddy, Tanner K., "How Does Racial Bias Impact the Perceptions of Black Women Regarding Maternal Care?" (2025). Honors College Theses. 1028.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/honors-theses/1028
