Black Families and Relationships

(Same as African American Studies M200C.) Evaluation of social, cultural, and historical forces that affect socialization, stability, and interaction in black intimate relationships, beginning with theoretical framework from black feminism to analysis of economic and other expectations for partners in cohabiting and other types of unions. Examination of family life for both middle-class and low-income populations. Exploration of notions of black sexuality, including images of hyper-masculinity and femininity within black body and critical interrogation of notions of blackness and authenticity in racial identification. Contribution to greater understanding of black intimate relationships in different contexts, including lesbian and gay identities, Caribbean and other ethnic identities, and interracial intimacies.

S/U or letter grading.