Date of Award

5-2018

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Executive Leadership

First Supervisor

C. Michael Robinson

Second Supervisor

Kim VanDerLinden

Abstract

Current studies show that Black female nurses are underrepresented at the leadership level in healthcare. Racial and ethnic minority groups comprised only 12% of RNs, of whom 4.9% were Black. The leadership of Black female nurses is needed to ensure the delivery of culturally competent care for the expanding diverse patient population, as well as to provide role models to Black nurses aspiring to leadership positions. This qualitative study explored the perspectives of seven Black female nurses occupying leadership roles in healthcare in Syracuse New York. To collect data, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed, coded, and analyzed. Bandura’s social learning theory with a focus on self-efficacy was used as the theoretical framework. The researcher found that the participants attributed leadership accomplishments to: (a) strong family ties, (b) spiritual beliefs, (c) mentors and sponsors, and (d) self-belief and resiliency. The findings from this study help to understand what factors have contributed to the success of these women in healthcare and the perceived obstacles that may have been presented while pursuing their career paths. Future studies addressing self-efficacy and resiliency, as it pertains to leadership persistence of not only Black female nurses but all nurses, can be informed by this study. Recommendations are offered for nursing practice, education, and organizational policy.

Included in

Education Commons

Share

COinS