A qualitative study: Social deprivation in a rural community as perceived by seven African American men

摘要

Using phenomenology technique, this qualitative study examined the perceptions of seven African American men regarding social deprivation in Caswell County and how that deprivation has influenced their economic status. From this small non-random sample of two generations, ages 21 to 29 and 30 to 44, the lived experiences of seven African American men were heard. Their responses were compared with previous studies of social deprivation. Through in-depth interviews, observations, and dialogues a comprehensive understanding of the seven African American men perception of social deprivation in rural Caswell County was acquired. Data analysis resulted from interviews that were audio taped and transcribed verbatim of the seven African American men lived experiences, including those experiences with family, peers, school, and community. Overall, the responses of the seven African American men suggest that their economic status is associated with the structural context of rural Caswell County, which perpetuates social deprivation. Their responses also suggest that ecological support systems and self may influence their economic status. Contributing to their economic hardships, the seven African American men reported that local policymakers of rural Caswell County appear to disregard their needs that would allow economic self-sufficiency. Compounding their existing barriers to economic growth, self was considered to have negative influences on their economic status. On the other hand, ecological support systems were identified as positively influencing the economic growth that they have experienced. Adding to what is already known about social deprivation in rural communities, these findings expand our knowledge about social deprivation, particularly among African American men in a rural community and what they perceive can be done in order to improve their lives. These findings support theoretical literature on the relationship between childhood outcomes and adulthood outcomes, which suggest that when parents are strengthened their children are also strengthened. These findings also provide direction for future research and practical implications for promoting the economic status of African American families and their nuclear family structure.