Boyhood to Manhood

Boyhood to Manhood: Deconstructing Black Masculinity through a Life Span Continuum seeks to foster an open and honest discussion about the intersection of multiple identities found among Black males. The book explores topics such as what it means to be a Black male; race and ethnicity; health; [dis]ability; athletics; socioeconomic status; historical accounts; employment; religion and sexual identity. Many Black men share the experience of being members of cultures that are guided by strict gendered norms. These norms often require men to conform to «masculine» behaviors, which may increase their levels of risk-taking behavior, anxiety and fear of being ostracized should they fail to display the appropriate «male» skill sets. The ability to explore and embrace other possibilities for the ways that men can construct their personal and professional realities helps to enhance and broaden the ways in which men live their lives and seek opportunities. The qualitative, quantitative and historical data presented in this book provide new understandings of the experiences, roles and perspectives of Black men.

C. Spencer Platt is Assistant Professor at the University of South Carolina. He received his PhD in higher education administration from the University of Texas at Austin. Darryl B. Holloman is Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Georgia State University and has worked in student and academic affairs for over twenty years. His research examines the progression and persistence of underrepresented populations on college campuses. Lemuel W. Watson is Dean of the College of Education at the University of South Carolina and Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policies and Executive Director for the South Carolina Center for Educational Partnerships.