The Deadly Challenges of Raising African American Boys
What is the text’s argument?
How effectively is the argument made?
What are its strongest points?
What are weak points?
Do you agree or disagree? Why?
Include other critical perspectives you draw from your reading and our current sociopolitical and cultural climate.
Sample Solution
Raising African American boys in the United States can be a daunting task. Due to socioeconomic disparities, systemic racism, and pervasive negative stereotypes, these youth face unprecedented challenges that can have deadly consequences if not addressed appropriately. As a future DNP-prepared nurse, I am dedicated to advocating on behalf of this vulnerable population by educating both families and society at large about the numerous issues they face when it comes to their physical, mental, and social health.
The current state of affairs reveals that African American boys are more likely than any other demographic group in America to experience poverty and lower educational attainment levels which can lead them down paths of hopelessness or criminal activity as an attempt to cope with their perceived lack of opportunity. They also contend with gender norms that promote aggression over emotional expression which can result in higher rates of violence within their communities. Additionally, these youth are exposed to discrimination from law enforcement as well as media outlets which contribute immensely towards feelings of mistrust amongst other individuals besides themselves.
Furthermore, disparities such as inadequate access to healthcare services or difficulty getting accepted into quality schools put African American boys at risk for physical and mental health issues like depression or anxiety disorders. Also alarming is the fact that suicide has become one of the deadliest challenges facing this population due its increasing prevalence among young males ages 10-24 within this demographic group according to data from 2016 (CDC).
To combat these obstacles effectively requires first recognizing that each individual child’s situation is different based on his unique experiences which will shape how he responds when faced with challenges specific only him. From there we must take collective action by creating support systems through mentorship programs along with providing resources such as job training opportunities or counseling for those who need it most.
Additionally promoting positive self image through outlets such film/television/social media would help counterbalance some of the detrimental messages associated with being an African American male today while helping build a sense pride within this community so they may feel empowered enough break cycles generational suffering create better lives for themselves going forward
Sample Solution
Raising African American boys in the United States can be a daunting task. Due to socioeconomic disparities, systemic racism, and pervasive negative stereotypes, these youth face unprecedented challenges that can have deadly consequences if not addressed appropriately. As a future DNP-prepared nurse, I am dedicated to advocating on behalf of this vulnerable population by educating both families and society at large about the numerous issues they face when it comes to their physical, mental, and social health.
The current state of affairs reveals that African American boys are more likely than any other demographic group in America to experience poverty and lower educational attainment levels which can lead them down paths of hopelessness or criminal activity as an attempt to cope with their perceived lack of opportunity. They also contend with gender norms that promote aggression over emotional expression which can result in higher rates of violence within their communities. Additionally, these youth are exposed to discrimination from law enforcement as well as media outlets which contribute immensely towards feelings of mistrust amongst other individuals besides themselves.
Furthermore, disparities such as inadequate access to healthcare services or difficulty getting accepted into quality schools put African American boys at risk for physical and mental health issues like depression or anxiety disorders. Also alarming is the fact that suicide has become one of the deadliest challenges facing this population due its increasing prevalence among young males ages 10-24 within this demographic group according to data from 2016 (CDC).
To combat these obstacles effectively requires first recognizing that each individual child’s situation is different based on his unique experiences which will shape how he responds when faced with challenges specific only him. From there we must take collective action by creating support systems through mentorship programs along with providing resources such as job training opportunities or counseling for those who need it most.
Additionally promoting positive self image through outlets such film/television/social media would help counterbalance some of the detrimental messages associated with being an African American male today while helping build a sense pride within this community so they may feel empowered enough break cycles generational suffering create better lives for themselves going forward