The Importance of Family and Identity for African American Women

Abstract

Family Is Me , I am Family [Name] [University] PSY-350 [Name] March 12,2023 Growing up as an African American woman , I was always taught to value family. Family was always looked upon as the closest people to you, especially you immediate family. Immediate family includes : spouses , children, parents , grandparents and siblings. At family events these are the people I would see the most often. When it comes to family , temperament and attachment is very important, especially starting at a young age. Temperament can be seen as a reflection of character and behavior. Temperament can be influenced by family environments and other external factors. Goldsmith states “Temperament refers primarily to emotional individuality. Attachment refers to the fundamental emotional bond between caregiver and infant, mediated in part by the infant's in- ternal working model of the care- giver”. Support from family members is very important to children's development. (Goldsmith, 1994). Having a supportive family contributed to my identity and culture. Growing up I was raised with plenty of love and support. If my immediate family had any control they would not let me fail in anything I was participating in. Attachment towards my parents was very important. It made me understand discipline and responsibilities at a young age. It also made me value family more and relationships with family members. Val using family also played a major part in establishing my culture. “For families of color, family encompasses their location; the function that each relationship provides; the values each relationship brings and upholds; affiliation connections, and lastly the deep connection that comes from blood ties (Sociological forum, 1995). Establishing good relationships at a young age with family helped me build character by teaching me the importance of loyalty. Being a loyal person made it easier for me...