The Black Man

The Black male in today's society continues to be at risk on a variety of important sociocultural and health issues, which impact negatively on his life, and on the lives of his family, friends, and the community. Recent studies have portrayed the Black man as rapidly becoming an endangered species (Parham, 1987; Gibbs, 1984; Leavy, 1983). It is clear from popular and scientific literature that the Black male is experiencing enormous pressure in many areas. These stresses are unique to the Black man, and have implications for Black youth as well as for older Black men who struggle with concerns about survival in a White-dominated society. This article addresses the external and internal factors faced by a majority of Black men and gives recommendations to educators and service providers on how to better provide for the apparent needs of Black males, with suggestions as to how Blacks may take greater initiative for survial.