(Un)Learning Masculinity? Black Men’s Sense Making About Learning and Negotiating Masculinities in College

• In Event: From K-12 to Postsecondary: Repositioning Black Masculinities, Identities, and Vulnerabilities

Abstract

Black men’s experiences in college have received significant research attention in the past two decades. Even with this increased focus, comparatively, less attention has been paid to Black men’s masculine identities and how these inform how they navigate the college milieu and think about themselves. This qualitative study takes a social constructivist approach to explore meanings and sense making of Black masculinities among 124 Black men across eight institutions. Findings indicate that these men are in an active process of (un)learning and performing masculinities, which ultimately inform their sense of self and how they navigate the college milieu. Findings indicate that better understanding Black men’s masculine identities can help inform how they are supported and served in their college years.

Author

• Derrick R. Brooms, Morehouse College