Week 6

What can we make of this if only 2%  of psychologists are African American?

What are the major areas of concerns for Black men ?

·         Considering the fact that only 2% of psychologists are African American here in the United States makes it more difficult for African American men to get help if they need to. I believe they can trust and be more open with someone who can understand, relate, and whom even experienced some of the struggles and issues they have been through…someone who knows exactly what it means to be black in today’s America and whom can relate on a spiritual level as well.

·         Educational and employment disparities, masculinity, anger from racism and oppression, group counseling and family therapy issues, as well as the issues some young adolescents are struggling with (being unwed fathers, dropping out of high school, and taking part in crime related activities), are current concerns for black men today.

What were the 2 components of self-esteem for Black women?     

·         Their need for social support and self-reliance.

What do Black heterosexual and Black same-sex couples have in common?

·         Contrary to popular beliefs, they are able to have long-term stable relationships and even sustain a family.

     

Is being gay a choice?  Who are the strange bedfellows that Watson is talking about?

·         According to the Pitts being gay is not something one chooses.

·         The strange bedfellows Watson is talking about are conservative whites, anti-gay activists, and the Black church.

What’s your opinion about how to address homophobia in Black community?  On college campuses?

·         In order to address homophobia in the Black community, I think people first need to have a sense of awareness and take into consideration that not only are black gays being oppressed due to racism  just as straight blacks are, but they are also facing heterosexism even within their own community. I think a good way to address this issue would be to have more classes, forums, or symposiums regarding this issue.

What does this mean for African American gay and lesbian teens?   How difficult would a coming out process be for Black gay and lesbian teens, particularly in Quadrant 4 of the African-centered behavior model?

·         This makes it even harder for African American gays and teens to come out or even be comfortable with their identity, suppressing who they really are just because of what society wants them to be.