Institutional Identity and Self-Esteem among African American Males in College

This article explores the relationship between self-esteem and institutional identity among 411 Black male college freshmen. Institutional identity, especially a sense of belonging, did correlate with self-esteem at both Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominately White Institutions (PWIs), though for different reasons.

• Black students with low self-esteem have a higher chance of confirming the negative stereotype about academic performance. Tweet
• Black students who felt a sense belonging to their institution, at both HBCUs and PWIs, were more likely to have high self-esteem. Tweet
• Colleges and universities should be sure to create environments that boost students' self-esteem by being welcoming and affirming for all. Tweet
• Institutions should place more emphasis on students having a clear understanding of the physical and human assets of their institutions. Tweet
• The higher education community should pay closer attention to how the attitudes and perceptions of Black males impact and are impacted by the college experience. Tweet