Presence Matters: Perceptions of Emotional and Social Involvement of Black Fathers

Background: Historically, systemic oppression and slavery disrupted the structure of Black families, contributing to the absence of fathers and ongoing challenges with paternal involvement. The trauma associated with this history has, in part, led to the father absence that many Black families experience and continue to struggle with in relation to father involvement. Methods: This exploratory research designed examined 196 participants’ perceptions of Black father figures’ emotional availability and involvement using the Lum Emotional Availability of Parenting Scale (LEAP) and the Father Involvement Scale (FIS). Participants aged 18 and older completed an online questionnaire disseminated via social media and email platforms. Data were analyzed using univariate statistical methods in SPSS 29. Results: Findings from the LEAP indicated that fathers or father figures were generally considered emotionally supportive (M = 3.89) but not as consistent in emotional availability (M = 3.40). The FIS data indicated moderate father involvement (M = 2.67–3.18). Fathers were reported to be most involved in roles relating to protection, advising, and providing, and least involved in roles relating to academic involvement and emotional-social development. Discussion: These results align with existing literature emphasizing the historical and structural barriers affecting Black fatherhood. The findings demonstrate the importance of strengthening emotional and developmental involvement among Black fathers to promote resilience and positive child outcomes. Policy and practice should prioritize culturally responsive programs that encourage paternal engagement within Black families.