Middle-Income Black Fathers: An Analysis of the Provider Role

Abstract

Interview data on 54 black letter carrier fathers were used for an analysis of the provider role among middle-income black fathers. While the provider role is found to be a very salient role identity for these respondents, the conceptualization of the provider role common in the popular sex-role literature as a one-dimensional, nonexpressive and restrictive escape from more involved patterns of fathering does not apply. Instead, cross-generational data suggest that these respondents are moving towards more developmental patterns of fathering with increases in their ability to provide. The provider role is viewed as an interface phenomenon which makes the execution of other male familial roles possible. Proficiency in economic provision is seen as essential to all paternal modalities and styles.