African American Family Structures and Community Dynamics

These flashcards summarize key terms and concepts related to African American family structures and community dynamics, based on the lecture notes.

Kinship

A system of social relationships that may or may not involve biological connections, crucial in African American communities.

Fictive kin

People who are treated as family members despite not being biologically related.

Racial socialization

The process by which families teach children about race and being African American, including messages about identity, pride, and coping with racism.

Communalism

A major cultural value in African American communities emphasizing collective well-being and interdependence among community members.

Extended family networks

These networks typically consist of relatives beyond the nuclear family and are significant sources of support in African American communities.

Disidentification

The distancing of self-worth from academic achievement, often affecting African American students' perceptions of schooling.

Stereotype threat

The risk of confirming negative stereotypes about one’s group, which can hinder performance.

Institutional racism

Systemic discrimination rooted in institutional policies and practices that disadvantage African Americans in various settings, including education.

Community psychology

A field that examines how societal conditions impact individuals and communities, emphasizing the importance of context.

Afrocentric psychology

A psychological perspective rooted in African culture, values, and experiences, often focusing on empowerment and cultural identity.