Internalised Colourism and Its Impact on Women's Psyche: Indian Perspective

Abstract Women's lives are still shaped by colorism in ways that are frequently subtle, private, and long-lasting psychologically. Although skin tone discrimination is generally recognized in public discourse, its internalization inside women's self-perception is given relatively little attention. Internalized colorism and its psychological effects on women are examined in this essay with a focus on the sociocultural backdrop of India. This paper makes the case that colorism functions not only as a social hierarchy but also as a profoundly psychological process that undermines self-esteem and defines identity. Using examples from marriage customs, workplaces the Indian film industry and regular social encounters. The study acknowledges resistance and complexity in women's lived experiences while placing internalized colorism within historical, cultural and gendered contexts by foregrounding women’s emotional and psychological realities. This study seeks to extend conversations on gender equality and social inclusion beyond structural discrimination to include internalised form of oppression. By foregrounding women’s emotional and psychological realities, the study seeks to extend conversations on gender equality and social inclusion beyond structural discrimination to include internalised forms of oppression.