What is Black Masculinity

Despite the historical and perpetual trauma, racism, discrimination, socio-economical, and socio-political disparities they have experienced in the United States, Black men have consistently forged ways to demonstrate resilience and assert their own sense of autonomy and masculinity. Nevertheless, their ecological context of living in a country that has historically sought to dehumanize them and eradicate their manhood is cumbersome to their mental wellbeing. Furthermore, the tendency by researchers to pathologize Black males obfuscates the reality of their situation in the United States, minimizing their mental needs. Understanding both the complexity of their ecological context as well as their adaptability and resilience will give behavioral health providers better insight into the realities of Black men's sense of masculinity and implications for their mental health. This chapter elucidates on the complexities of the Black male experience, Black masculinity, and implications for their mental health. The chapter concludes with recommendations for treatment.