The Black Family and Black Community Development

Abstract

Black family life is discussed in the context of Black community development. The author contends that mutual, interactive actions by Black families and Black community institutions could benefit both. The familial functions of socialization (including racial conscious ness) and economic functioning are reviewed, and the ways that Black families can assist in the development of the Black community through efficient use of family resources are explored. The author argues that more judicious resource utilization and allocation by Black organizations could contribute to increased family well- being. Discussion also focuses upon the theoretical relation ship between the Black family and the Black community. emphasizing the centrality of Black family life in the Black community. Other topics explored in this article include the relationship between Black self-concept and consumer behavior; the interrelation among racial awareness, consumerism, and community development: and the contemporary bond between Black families and Black institutions.