Perceptions of Success Among Urban African American Middle School Youth

• In Event: School Characteristics and Student Connectedness

Abstract

This study qualitatively examined African American middle-school students’ perceptions of what it means to be successful in America, what achieved success requires of them, and what obstacles they have experienced or anticipate in striving to be “successful.” Several themes emerged revealing largely mainstream goals yet vague understanding of pathways for success and limited access to individuals whose accomplishments matched student aspirations. This research heightens awareness of the variety of belief systems of success endorsed by students, identifies the need for positive African American role models early career counseling, and aids in the understanding of underachievement placed in the context of identified risk factors.

Authors

• April Z. Taylor, California State University - Northridge

• Hannah Levy, California State University - Northridge

• Erika Aguilar, California State University - Northridge

• Sandra Angelica Saucedo-Salgado, California State University - Northridge