Parenting values, skills, practices, and education preferences of black parents and extended family members

This qualitative study examined via focus groups and interviews, parenting values, skills, practices, and methodology of parenting education preferences of Black families in North Central Texas (Dallas area). A total of 38 parents (kin and non-kin extended family members) participated in 4 focus group sessions. Five focus groups participants participated in follow-up interviews. Participants were recruited through referrals and personal invitations from a Dallas area church, child-care center, and community-based recreation center. Focus group discussions were conducted to generate information using 31 open-ended and direct questions on parenting values, skills, practices, and preferred parent education methodology. Interviews were conducted to probe previous answers given in the focus group sessions. A 7-item quantitative survey was administered to gather family demographic information.

Discussion sessions and interviews were audio-taped and transcribed. Findings addressed the common themes and patterns reflecting parenting values, skills, practices, and parent education methodology preferences. Findings indicated (a) that Black families have a strong commitment to parenting; (b) that Black families have a strong sense of parental responsibility; (c) Black families are supported by extended family members, and influenced by religiosity, family, and friends; and (d) that Black families socialize their children to live in dual environments (i.e., Black and White). Findings also revealed specific parenting education preferences.