Cultural Influences;The African-American Extended Family

The African-American extended family can be traced to the African heritage of most black Americans. In many African societies, newly married couples do not start their own households. Instead, they live with a large extended family, which assists its members with all aspects of daily life. This tradition of maintaining a broad network of kin ties traveled to North America during the period of slavery. Since then, it has served as a pro­tective shield against the destructive impact of poverty and racial prejudice on African- American family life. Today, more black than white adults have relatives other than their own children living in the same household. African-American parents also live closer to kin, often establish family-like relationships with friends and neighbors, see more relatives during the week, and perceive them as more important figures in their lives (Boyd-Franklin, 2006; McAdoo & Younge, 2009). By providing emotional support and sharing essential resources, the African-American extended family helps reduce the stress of poverty and single parenthood. Extended- family members often help with child rearing, and adolescent mothers living in extended families are more likely to complete high school and get a job than mothers living on their own—factors that benefit children’s well‑being (Gordon, Chase-Lansdale, & Brooks‑Gunn, 2004). For single mothers rearing children and adolescents, extended-family living continues to be associated with more positive mother–child interaction. Even after establishing their own home, single mothers often invite family members or close friends to live with them. This kinship support increases the likelihood of effective parenting, which is related to gains in children’s academic performance and social skills and to reduced antisocial behavior (­Taylor, 2010; Washington, Gleeson, & Rulison, 2013). Finally, the extended family plays an important role in transmitting African-American culture. Compared with nuclear-family households (which include only parents and their children), extended-family arrangements place more emphasis on cooperation and on moral and religious values. And older black adults, such as grandparents and great-grandparents, view educating children about their African heritage as especially important (Mosely-­Howard & Evans, 2000; Taylor, 2000). These influences strengthen family bonds, enhance children’s development, and increase the chances that the extended-family lifestyle will carry over to the next generation. Three generations enjoy a family picnic. Strong bonds with extended-family members have helped protect many African-American children against the destructive impact of poverty and racial prejudice.