Black Adults’ Perceptions of Healthy Family Functioning

Abstract

This study explores Black adults’ perceptions of factors that contribute to healthy family functioning. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 Black participants between the ages of 26 and 54. They responded to a question on their perceptions of healthy family functioning. In addition, a semistructured interview was conducted with the eight participants who presented with the richest data. Analysis of the data revealed healthy family functioning to be characterised by effective communication, appropriate affective involvement, well-defined family rules, clear family boundaries and a common religion.