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A Single Fathers Network Research Study

Raising Emotionally Resilient Sons

Exploring Black Fatherhood and Emotional Socialization

Black fathers have always played a powerful role in shaping the emotional lives of their sons. This study centers your voice, your experience, and your wisdom.

Share Your Story
A Black father kneeling at eye level, comforting his young son at home.
A Black father reading a picture book with his toddler son in his lap.

Why This Study Matters

Research has often overlooked what Black fathers contribute to their sons' emotional development. This study is different. It is strengths based. It is not about what is missing. It lifts up what Black fathers are already doing: the everyday lessons, the quiet moments of reassurance, and the cultural wisdom passed down through generations. What we learn will help shape better educational practices and family support programs for years to come. Early emotional foundations shape how sons handle school, friendships, and the world around them.

Who Can Join

  • You identify as a Black father

  • You provide care for a Black boy between birth and age 8

Fathers anywhere in the United States are welcome to apply.

What's Involved

Participation has three parts, about 2 hours and 25 minutes in total. There are no tests and no right answers, and sessions are scheduled flexibly around your life.

A group of Black fathers in a circle having a supportive conversation.
Village Sessions bring fathers together in conversation.

  1. Short Questionnaire

    About 10 minutes, at your own pace.

  2. Village Session

    A guided group conversation with other Black fathers about your sons' emotional development. About 90 minutes.

    Sessions may be led by the lead researcher, a member of the research team, or a Single Fathers Network representative.

  3. One on One Interview

    A private conversation with the research team to share your story in more depth. About 45 minutes.

  • Format: Virtual by secure video (you will need a device with internet access and a quiet, private space), and in person where possible at community locations.

  • Compensation: Fathers who complete the one on one interview receive a stipend.

Dr. Evandra Catherine, Principal Investigator.

Who Is Leading the Study

Dr. Evandra Catherine, Ph.D.

Principal Investigator and Chief Research Officer, Single Fathers Network

The study is led by Dr. Evandra Catherine, Ph.D., Chief Research Officer of Single Fathers Network and Principal Investigator for this study.

Contact Dr. Catherine

Your Privacy and Your Choice

  • Participation is completely voluntary. You can skip any question or stop at any time with no penalty.

  • Your identity is protected. No names appear in published results, and findings are shared in summary form.

  • In group sessions, full confidentiality cannot be guaranteed because other fathers are present, but everyone is asked to respect group privacy.

Share Your Story

Tell us a little about yourself using the short form below. A member of the research team will follow up with next steps.

Support the Study

Not eligible, or want to do more? Your donation covers meals for participating fathers, compensation for the barbershops that host Village Sessions, and the outreach and coordination that make this study possible. Single Fathers Network is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Partner With Us

Are you an organization, barbershop, church, or community group that serves Black fathers? Partner with us to help reach fathers in your community.

Become a Partner (opens in a new tab)
This research is funded by the Spencer Foundation. Single Fathers Network is proud to recognize the Spencer Foundation as the grantor supporting this study.

"When Black fathers speak, the world has much to learn."