Not Your Textbook Male: Black Male School Counselors and Their Experience With Masculinity

• In Event: 45.030 - Innovations in School Counseling: Supporting Diverse Students and Counselors

Abstract

Research has suggested that male gender identity, or masculinity, influences career decisions as well as overall behavior (Chen, Lee, Yu, & Shen, 2014; Jackson, 1983;Lemons & Parzinger, 2007). Further research, has suggested that Black men experience masculinity different than their White counterparts (Majors & Billson, 1993). This project will look qualitatively at how Black men navigated masculine norms to choose a career in which they are underrepresented. Specifically, this project will aim to understand the experience of Black male school counselors. Implications of the current study included but are not limited to context to improve retention rates for Black males employed in K-12 settings and empowering young Black boys to explore careers outside of those prescribed to them.

Authors

• Jonathan K Ferguson, University of Missouri - Columbia

• Johanna Milord, University of Missouri - Columbia

• Christopher D. Slaten, University of Missouri - Columbia