A Qualitative Approach to the Dimensions of Segregation among Pregnant Black Women

This study compares and contrasts residents’ perceptions of segregation measures using qualitative and quantitative data. Most studies exploring racial residential segregation and health outcomes use large-scale, metropolitan-wide measures. As a result, we have limited understanding of racial residential segregation outside of Census data, particularly about the firsthand experiences of those living in segregated areas. The purpose of this study was to compare data from Census-based measures of racial residential segregation with qualitative descriptions of these same constructs by pregnant, Black women in two US cities. Using novel qualitative interview questions, we explored the dimensions of segregation and neighborhood racial distribution among a sample of 27 pregnant, Black women between April and November 2019. The participants included in this sample had perceptions about their neighborhood segregation and demographic composition that were often different from the data derived from existing residential US Census data. The differences between qualitative and quantitative measures and the possible reasons for the discordance suggest new approaches to measurement and new directions for the study of segregation and health.