African‐centered therapeutic community substance abuse treatment with incarcerated Black males: A pilot model

Abstract

This article proposes a pilot therapeutic intervention for counseling Black male substance abusers within the carceral system. Despite the noted fact that Black males are disproportionately represented as drug‐using offenders, few treatment models exist that are germane to this population. The current model emanated from an African‐centered theoretical framework. Additionally, it employed the therapeutic community approach that addresses substance use and mental health issues among inmates. Specific considerations for counselors and future research are discussed.

A Rites of Passage Counseling Group: Black Panther as a Metaphor of Strength and Resiliency for Young Black Males

“…Even with the ratification of the law, the next 100 years Jim Crow rules sustained an aura of psychological oppression for Black people. While some argue these past events are not relevant in modern society (Owens, 2019), a more robust intellectual stance indicates otherwise (Burt et al, 2023;Ford et al, 2023;Williams et al, 2023). So called "Black codes" (laws created to curtail Black freedom and autonomy) coupled with Jim Crow led to institutionalized racism which is prevalent today (Raheem & Hart, 2019).…”

“…Most importantly for Black populations (i.e., young males), having an Africana-centered ritual that embodies central tendencies of Blackness is paramount (Myers et al, 2022). Particularly for men, having a rite of passage is more helpful when focusing on: (a) Order and balance (mind, body, and soul); (b) Reciprocity; (c) Communalism; (d) Respect for those who came before you; and (e) Spirituality (Lateef et al, 2022;Williams et al, 2023). While this list is not exhaustive, these main points are the critical components an Africana rite of passages should encompass (Myers, 1993).…”

“…Thus, an African rite of passages is not antagonistic, or fragmented (i.e., fighting internally against oneself). On the contrary, it is a natural, uninhibited, free-flowing process (Myers, 1993;Williams et al, 2023). This does not mean, however, the procedure is void of impediments or difficulties.…”

“…Fragmentation occurs due to the person not having a clear depiction of who they are as a person. Thus, an Africana-centered rites would need to incorporate people as an integrated whole, instead of broken/divided (Myers, 1993;Williams et al, 2023).…”

“…Further, an interesting cultural component of Black Panther is that he must undergo rites of passages to claim his birthright. Rites of passages are gaining distinction as a culturally responsive tool to use with Black males (Lateef et al, 2022;Williams et al, 2023). Integrating the two (Black Panther and rites of passages) into a therapeutic school-based counseling group can be an innovative, contemporary intervention.…”