A Scoping Review of Racial Identity, Racial Socialization, and Africentric Worldview in the Context of Obesity in Black Adolescent Females

Abstract

Objective: Black adolescent females and women are disproportionately burdened by obesity that is attributed to structural and interpersonal racism. Previous researchers described that three protective mechanisms (racial identity, racial socialization, and Africentric worldview) serve as forms of coping for Black adolescent females with obesity. The purpose of this scoping review was to summarize evidence on the relationships among racial identity, racial socialization, and Africentric worldview in the context of obesity (body mass index, physical activity, and diet) among Black adolescent females.

Methods: Six literature databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies published in English and included a sample with 50% or more Black adolescent females (age 10-19 years). Studies that reported a sample of participants over 24 years of age and/or with less than 50% Black adolescent females or did not report the findings for Black female participants separately and did not discuss racial identity, racial socialization, andAfricentric worldview in the context of obesity were excluded. The last search was performed on July 8, 2025.

Results: Six studies met eligibility criteria. The foci of studies included racial identity (n = 5) and racial socialization (n = 4). None of the studies assessed Africentric worldview.

Discussion: Findings suggest protective mechanisms (racial identity and racial socialization) are linked with obesity; however, the nature and pathways of the association are unknown. These preliminary findings can inform the development of culturally tailored obesity prevention intervention strategies designed for Black adolescent females.

Keywords: Adolescent; Black or African American; Daughters; Obesity; Racism; Scoping review; Socialization.