Fathers perform a fundamental role in the healthy development of their children and families. However, the story of Black fatherhood has been shaped by systemic racism that’s excluded them as fathers and partners. This removal has contributed to Black fathers’ social and health disparities—and to the health and well-being of their families and communities.
In popular culture, Black fatherhood bias and stereotypes continue to appear on social media platforms, in television programs, on movie screens, and in the news. The stereotypes are disrespectful, harmful—and untrue.
According to research from blackdemographics.com, the Institute for Family Studies, and the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, Black men are some of the most deeply and consistently engaged fathers whether they live with their children or not. In one CDC study, Black fathers were most likely to have been involved in activities with their children compared with white and Hispanic fathers.
In short, Black fathers are powerful forces for good in their children’s everyday lives, guiding them emotionally and socially.
Dr. Tasha Alston, University of Pittsburgh Assistant Professor in the School of Medicine and Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Pitt’s Division of General Internal Medicine, has co-edited a new book on Black fatherhood along with Brianna Lemmons of Baylor University (and founder of the Black Female Fatherhood Scholars Network) and Latrice Rollins of the Morehouse School of Medicine. All three editors study Black fathers and families.
The book, which draws on years of research by well-respected academics, is titled Health, Parenting, and Community Perspectives on Black Fatherhood: Defying Stereotypes and Amplifying Strengths. According to Dr. Alston, “The book celebrates and uplifts Black fatherhood by citing research alongside Black men’s lived experiences as they challenge stereotypes and embrace their role as fathers with resilience and joy.”
The book was written for people who are studying social work, public health, and education. It’s also intended for researchers, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members whose job is to support Black fathers and families. “We hope the book will be used to create programs and processes that champion Black fathers,” says Dr. Alston.
The content is organized within three key areas: Fathers’ mental and physical health, how they parent, and the community support that’s vital for their well-being and successful parenting.
The chapters concentrate on the full range of Black fatherhood, including the ongoing challenges they face as well as their resilience. Through research and essays, readers gain a better understanding of what Black fathers need to not only survive but thrive. “For example, what does it mean to co-parent when fathers live with their kids vs when they don’t?” says Dr. Alston. “How can health researchers engage Black fathers as partners in research projects and in the health of mothers? What about support for Black ‘girl-dads’ and dads whose children are autistic? How do Black fathers form beneficial relationships with in-laws?”
The book illustrates the relationship between the health of Black fathers and community support. “The two are deeply interconnected,” says Dr. Alston. “Fatherhood and community reinforce one another, especially fathers’ mental health. For example, we know that fatherhood support groups can help fathers feel less alone. By sharing their experiences with other fathers , they gain emotional support.”
Fathers aren’t the only ones who benefit from community support. Their kids do, too. “Children with healthy, engaged fathers tend to do better in school, are healthier emotionally, more resilient, and better able to cope with adversity,” Dr. Alston continues.
There are economic and social advantages as well. “When communities support and elevate Black fatherhood by offering parenting classes and job training, for example, they improve household stability. That, in turn, creates a healthier neighborhood.”
The interconnection between fatherhood and community support also helps to stop harmful stereotypes of Black fatherhood. “One thing I’m most proud of is that our book illustrates the persistence of Black fathers in the face of adversity—in their own words,” notes Dr. Alston. “It makes clear and showcases the strengths, perspective, and contributions Black fathers make in the lives of their children, families, and communities. Their lived experiences raise the voices of Black fathers who love and care for their children in a system that often makes that difficult,” she continues. “We hope their voices serve as resource for well-rounded policies and programs of support.”
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