Black Parenting Power
Open Access DepositedA Qualitative Study Examining Coparental Racial Socialization Practices in Black Families
The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine racial socialization practices within Black coparental dyads and family systems. Informed by Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Ecological Systems Theory, the study explored how Black parents with adolescent children (ages 13–16) plan for and navigate discussions about racism with their coparent and within their family, including the factors influencing the timing and content of these discussions. A sample of nine Black parents residing in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States completed semi-structured interviews. Data was analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to identify common themes. Results indicated that the quality of the coparental relationship was the primary determinant of whether and how coparents navigated conflict regarding race-based topics. A relationship built on mutual respect and understanding was crucial for navigating disagreements when they arose. Additionally, participants reported that the content of discussions was influenced by several individual- and child-level factors, including the parent's own racial socialization experiences and encounters with racial bias, as well as the child's gender and developmental stage. The timing of these family conversations was also influenced by the family's community, peer network, and the current sociopolitical climate. These findings have important implications for practice, suggesting that professionals working with Black families should focus on strengthening supportive familial relationships and bonds to foster effective, positive communication about race-based topics.
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