Black Fathering and Mental Health: Black Fathers' Narratives on Raising Their Children Across the Family Life Cycle

This edited volume is the first work to amplify the voices of Black men in communicating their mental health needs and challenges while fathering in their families and communities. It offers unique and untapped perspectives about the needs, challenges, and victories of Black fathering across the family life cycle in an anti-Black world. The contributors offer counselors and other mental health professionals a resource to assist them in providing culturally relevant and responsive support to Black fathers at various points across the family life cycle.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 148 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2022
Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing Inc

This edited volume is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at amplifying the voices of Black men in communicating their mental health needs and challenges while fathering in their families and communities. Dr. Michael Hannon has assembled a diverse group of Black fathers and aspiring fathers, who are also professional counselors, to offer unique and insightful perspectives on the experiences of Black fathering in an anti-Black world.

In each chapter, the contributors provide valuable insights and resources for counselors and other mental health professionals seeking to provide culturally relevant and responsive support to Black fathers at various stages of the family life cycle. They also delve into the circumstances that may prompt or prevent Black fathers from seeking counseling support, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities involved.

Dr. Michael Hannon and his colleagues have made a significant contribution to the literature on Black fathering and anti-racism with their candid and vulnerable portrayal of Black men as sons and fathers. Their lived experiences, combined with their education and expertise in mental health counseling, challenge the pervasive racist notion of the absent Black father. The contributors' diverse lived experiences reflect the wide range of family constellations present in our society.

As an Arab American who has raised two Biracial Black children with special needs, I found this manuscript to be deeply resonant. The fears expressed about my children encountering the dangers of racism and white supremacy echoed the concerns I had when I first held them in my arms. Each contributor shares personal reflections on how counseling has either helped or could have helped their fathering journey.

This edited volume is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the mental health needs and experiences of Black fathers, as well as the broader societal implications of amplifying their voices. It serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of Black men in navigating the challenges of fatherhood and advocating for their well-being.

Weight: 247g
Dimension: 225 x 150 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781433193095
Edition number: New ed