Ain’t Nobody Fresher Than My Clique: Formation of Black Masculine Identity Within Groups

• In Event: 519 - Section on Race, Class and Gender Refereed Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable 100min: Table 04. Adding New Intersections

Abstract

Using qualitative data this study explores Black masculinity through the group formation of young males. Different than gangs, these Black males form cliques that are the vehicles for producing and performing masculinity. The authors argue respondents find identity and meaning through the social connections made through this group formation, and face a heightened level of disciple and surveillance based on their clique affiliation. These black males create identity through maintaining street code and performing hyper-masculine behavior, but this results in the clash of normative regulations by the institutions they interact with.

Authors

• Horace Joseph Duffy, Rice University

• Adriana Lizette Garcia, Rice University