Hair and meanings of ethnic-racial belonging in girls' conversations

Abstract

Objective Structural racism is a systemic phenomenon in Brazilian society that distributes conditions of subordination and privilege among racial groups, reinforcing the dominance of the White group. Its individual expression can be seen throughout daily interactions. Children, through immersion in the social fabric, construct their cultural identity and gradually develop a sense of belonging to an ethno-racial group. The aim of this study is to identify racialized social stereotypes about hair in conversations among girls aged 9 to 11 years old. Method Two groups were organized in a public school, each consisting of two Black and two White girls. They participated in seven video-recorded play sessions, averaging 30 minutes each. Among the toys were a Black, blonde, Oriental, and a brown-haired White doll. Results Microgenetic analysis was performed, focusing on conversation segments about ethnic-racial belonging. Conclusion It revealed racist beliefs and values underlying the meanings attributed to hair.