Narratives of resilience by Black men who attended a private urban boarding school : embracing strength and hope in the midst of adversity

The purpose of this study was to explore the process of resilience among a group of Black men who attended a private boarding school located in urban Philadelphia, PA, which offers a college preparatory program for economically disadvantaged students from 1st through 12th grade. A key focus of this study was to understand their process of resilience across time to learn about specific resources and strategies they used to navigate systemic and contextual adversity. This investigation was also conducted by examining socio-cultural factors that impacted the participants’ process of resilience prior to enrolling in the school, throughout their attendance, and post-graduation (or departure). Further, Human Ecological theory guided the qualitative inquiry process. Specifically, precursors were explored according to micro-, mezzo-, exo-, and macro-systems over time. Relevant resilience frameworks were used to interpret qualitative data according to the thematic analytical approach. According to research findings, the identified main themes highlight the importance of using a holistic approach to support Black men and youth who experience extreme adversity. Research results also indicate selective program components that are of relevance for community-based initiatives and interventions aimed at supporting the optimal development for Black men and youth in urban settings. In summary, study findings offer clear evidence for the following actions when considering programs aimed at supporting Black men from adverse contexts : (a) frame resilience research with Black men and youth within the legacy of systemic racism and oppression, (b) explore adversity as a precursor of resilience, and (c) define and operationalize resilience from the unique perspectives of Black men and youth. Implications for social work practice, research, education, and policy are discussed.Social Wor