Toward a (De)constructive Psychology of African American Men

Abstract

Recent psychological theory and research about African American men are overwhelmingly cast in crisis terms. Within such theory and research, the experimental mainstream and Afrocentric psychology seem diametrically opposed to each other with respect to causes and reasons for the crisis as well as strategies for intervention and remediation. The author argues that, such surface differences notwithstanding, both proceed from an unquestioned assumption of an essentialized, endangered, and embattled African American masculinity, the consequence of an epistemological similarity that is deeply implicated in the representational politics and discursive construction of African American men. In response, theau-thor presents an outline of a discursive and cultural psychological alternative to studying and understanding African American men.

Subordinate Black South African Men without Fear

“…Arguably, this is particularly important in context of historical colonial and apartheid. Such an approach allows for the demonstration of how understandings of particular behaviours, such as homicide, become framed by social, political and economic processes (Laubscher 2005).…”

Exploring African American Masculinities: An Integrative Model

“…Critics of an Afrocentric approach assert that a universalized Afrocentric conceptualization of African American masculinity relies on generalizations and disregard the dynamic heterogeneity in African American experiences (Laubscher 2005). Some Afrocentric models of masculinity have been challenged for their perpetuation of patriarchal and heterosexist agendas (Asante) and for ignoring the dilemmas of power within and between groups of Black Americans (Hooks 2004).…”

The Role of the Black Church, the Barbershop/Beauty Salon, and Digital Communication to Support African American Persons Living With HIV/AIDS

“…Laubscher (2005) asserted that the Black barbershop has emerged and continues to be a crucial pivot for the African American narrative, which has played an important role in the history of Black liberation (e.g., being a frequent stop on the Underground Railroad). The CMH program trains barbers and stylists to "deliver health messages, perform CPR, create opportunities for dialogues about health, and transform their shops into health information portals" (Ford et al, 2009, p. 487).…”