Black Fathers Invisible Presence.

[harry brown]

Black Fathers ,Invisible Presence, Book By  Michael Connor.There Are Black Men Who Are Involved,Loving Raising Their Children.White Supremacy,Hollywood,White Media,Speak Negative Of Black ,Males.All Black Men,Are Iresponsible  Fathers And Criminals,White Opinion..Black People Themselves,Black Entertainment,Rap Music,Gangs,Crack Cocaine,Pimps,Iresponsible Sex,Black Entertainment Glamourizes,Negative Image Of Black Men.The Church ,Preachers,With Prostitutes,Having Babies With Mistresses,3 Black Preachers Have Killed Their Wifes,My Opinion.Respect For Responsible Black Fathers..

[Troy]

I seem to recall seeing this book, Black Fathers: An Invisible Presence in America These types of books never really resonate with me, as this is not my experience.  All of the men I know raise their children, lament that fact that they can't raise them and are raising other men's children.  I also know the stats about kids not knowing their biological fathers, or kids born out of wedlock generally don't factor in the fact that there is often a man in the house helping to raise and support these children.

From the publisher:

This book offers a broader, more positive picture of African American fathers. Featuring case studies of African-descended fathers, this edited volume brings to life the achievements and challenges of being a black father in America. Leading scholars and practitioners provide unique insight into this understudied population. Short-sighted social policies which do not encourage father involvement are critically examined and the value of father engagement is promoted. The problems associated with the absence of a father are also explored.

The second edition features an increased emphasis on:

• the historical issues confronting African descended fathers

• the impact of health issues on Black fathers and their children

• the need for therapeutic interventions to aid in the healing of fathers and their children

• the impact of an Afrikan-centered fathering approach and the need for research which considers systemic problems confronting African American fathers

• community focused models that provide new ideas for (re)connecting absent fathers

• learning tools including reflective questions and a conclusion in each chapter and more theory and research throughout the book.

Part I provides a historical overview of African descended fathers including their strengths and shortcomings over the years. Next, contributors share their personal stories including one from a communal father working with underserved youth and two others that highlight the impact of absent fathers. Then, the research on father-daughter relationships is examined including the impact of father absence on daughters and on gender identity. This section concludes with a discussion of serving adolescents in the foster care system.

Part II focuses on the importance of a two-parent home, communal fathering, and equalitarian households. Cultural implications and barriers to relationships are also explored. This section concludes with a discussion of the struggles Black men face with role definitions. The book concludes with a discussion of the impact of adoption and health issues on Black fathers and their children, and the need for more effective therapeutic interventions that include a perspective centered in the traditions and cultures of Afrika in learning to become a father. The final chapter offers an intervention model to aid in fatherhood.

An ideal supplementary text for courses on fathers and fathering, introduction to the family, parenting, African American families/men, men and masculinity, Black studies, race and ethnic relations, and family issues taught in a variety of departments, the book also appeals to social service providers, policy makers, and clergy who work with community institutions.