A Paradigm Shift: Supporting the Multidimensional Identities of Black Male Youth

ABSTRACT

Black male youth are poorly represented in the counseling literature. There is a focus on development from a deficit model and lack of attention to their complex and multidimensional identities. In addition, popular media invariably portray Black male youth through a myopic lens as needing to overcome a litany of challenges and struggles. The purpose of this article is to begin to combat this myopic view. This article further explores the notion of listening to learn from the voices of Black male youth prior to implementing group work practices. Implications for group work practice are provided.

KEYWORDS:

• Black male youth
• group work
• critical race theory

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to thank Kurt Kraus for his contributions to the dialogue and support that formulated the basis of this manuscript.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Linwood G. Vereen

Linwood G. Vereen is an Associate Professor at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.

Marcelle R. Giovannetti

Marcelle R. Giovannetti is a doctoral student at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania and an Adjunct Instructor at Shippensburg University and Messiah College.

Lynn Bohecker

Lynn Bohecker is an Associate Professor at Liberty Univeristy.