Insight into the Black Family

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Demographics and economic status easily work hand in hand in the functioning of the African American family. Typically, families with lower socioeconomic statuses tend to reside in heavily populated, low developed, poorer, urban neighborhoods. As a result, they tend to endure more hardships throughout their life, and pass those hardships down to their children. Based on their situations at home and where they reside, African American families, children specifically, are more vulnerable to influences from their surrounding environment. For example, “children of unmarried mothers of any race are more likely to perform poorly in school, go to prison, use drugs, be poor as adults, and have their own children out of wedlock” (Washington, 2010). Growing up in poorer neighborhood often gains a reputation of a presence of drugs and gangs. Children, looking for a sense of brother/sisterhood and identity, often turn to gangs to push themselves away from stressful situations at home or in school. After a while, many children resort to dropping out of school, claiming, “it is not for them.” This trend becomes very prominent in neighborhoods down south and major cities. Dating all the way back to beginning of the 20st century, for Blacks, the typical residential setting was southern and rural; for Whites it was northern and urban” (Smelser, et. al., 2001). However, due to high levels of local and state segregation, many blacks migrated to the urban North. In today’s society, these urban settings contain an abundance of resources that are vital to many families, in this case, African American families. The mass migration of blacks towards the North established many predominately black neighborhoods, much of which are still there today. Eventually, communities were established where a sense of belongingness and identity were created between African American individuals. These communities helped alleviate the everyday hardships and struggles that blacks had and continue to endure. Moreover, urban settings are seen as a source of job opportunities for people. As blacks already face low employment rates, many urban communities allow opportunities for them to take part it.

Of all the dimensions, the Black family is the most researched and studied topic of African American Studies. Although most families share similar features, the Black family possess very distinct aspects that distinguishes them from families of other races. From familial structures to economic statuses to demographics, blacks have and continue to endure many difficulties in society today. Some might argue that the conditions of most African American families have resulted from their economic statuses. However, there is enough evidence and research to depict that the many hardships and origins of certain mentalities have originated during the era of slavery.

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