Black Women as Superwomen; Health Disparities and the Cost of Strength: A Discursive Paper

ABSTRACT

Aim

Historically, Black women have been positioned as primary caretakers and problem-solvers, often expected to bear disproportionate responsibility during times of crisis. There is an enduring image of Black women possessing exceptional strength handed down through generations, captured in the sociocultural phenomenon known as the superwoman schema, or SWS. The aim of this discursive review is to explore health disparities among Black women related to the SWS.

Design

A discursive paper.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar to identify relevant papers published from 2016 to 2025 that addressed health disparities among Black women.

Discussion

Through literature review, we identified three critical areas of health disparities associated with mental health disorders, maternal mortality and breast cancer, reflecting the influence of inequitable practices embedded within healthcare systems and society. Nurses, advanced practice nurses and other healthcare providers must prioritise identifying and addressing barriers that hinder access to quality healthcare for Black women. Many providers remain unaware of how depressive symptoms, chronic stress and social determinants impact maternal, mental and breast health outcomes. Encouraging Black women to prioritise mental health, engage in routine prenatal care and seek early breast cancer screening is critical to improving health outcomes. By understanding the historical, societal, and personal contexts of the SWS, nurses can clarify both its benefits and challenges for Black women.