Name
Chamberlain University
NR-717: Concepts in Population Health Outcomes & Health Policy
Prof. Name
Datea
African Americans represent one of the oldest and most historically significant minority groups in the United States. Their roots trace back to the 17th century, primarily through the transatlantic slave trade. Over generations, African Americans have shaped U.S. society through contributions in politics, arts, science, sports, and civil rights. Their enduring presence has deeply influenced American culture, making them central to the nation’s history and ongoing development.
The African American community strongly emphasizes family connections, unity, and resilience. Many households follow a traditional or extended family structure, in which shared caregiving responsibilities are common. Education is regarded as a tool for empowerment, advancement, and breaking cycles of inequality. Hard work, determination, and perseverance are deeply embedded cultural values, reflecting a long-standing legacy of overcoming systemic barriers.
Table 1 below summarizes these values.
| Cultural Dimension | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Viewed as a pathway to success, empowerment, and economic advancement. |
| Work | Hard work and resilience symbolize cultural pride and survival. |
| Family Structure | Family unity and support networks are central; extended families often play key roles. |
| Power | Historically marginalized, yet empowerment through leadership, activism, and community resilience remains strong. |
Religion holds significant influence in African American life, with many identifying as Christian, particularly Baptist. Churches often serve as spiritual, cultural, and social support systems. They provide safe spaces for empowerment, activism, and community engagement. Holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and Juneteenth are celebrated with strong cultural expression.
Food traditions are diverse, though “soul food” is often associated with African American culture, emphasizing dishes such as collard greens, cornbread, fried chicken, and sweet potatoes. Clothing styles are not defined by one tradition but often reflect individuality, regional influences, and contemporary trends.
Historically, the African American community has experienced systemic inequities in healthcare, leading to mistrust toward medical institutions. Events such as the Tuskegee Syphilis Study created intergenerational skepticism about medical research and healthcare professionals. As a result, adherence to treatment and preventive care can vary. However, with increasing health education and community-based programs, many African Americans are actively working toward better engagement with healthcare systems.
African Americans continue to face systemic racism, discrimination, and cultural marginalization. These inequities manifest in education, employment, housing, and healthcare. Structural racism has perpetuated disparities, resulting in unequal opportunities and outcomes. Despite these challenges, the community has developed resilience through activism, advocacy, and cultural pride, with movements like Black Lives Matter highlighting persistent inequalities and advocating for justice.
This culturagram highlights the African American population, which represents one of the largest racial minority groups in the United States. According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2023), African Americans make up approximately 13.6% of the U.S. population. Their cultural, economic, and political influence continues to grow nationally and globally.
Question: What are the effects of trauma and crisis events within the African American community?
Answer:
The legacy of slavery, segregation, and systemic discrimination has left lasting psychological and social impacts on African Americans. Historical trauma, combined with present-day challenges such as racial profiling, economic inequity, and violence, contributes to higher rates of stress-related conditions, depression, and anxiety. Communities have shown resilience through faith, family support, and activism, but ongoing crises continue to shape health outcomes and cultural well-being.
English is the predominant language spoken by African Americans in both home and community settings. While there are no significant language barriers, unique communication styles such as African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and cultural expressions form an integral part of identity. These linguistic styles contribute to cultural pride and carry historical significance, representing creativity, resilience, and shared heritage.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Health disparities among African Americans. https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity
U.S. Census Bureau. (2023). QuickFacts: United States. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US
Williams, D. R., & Cooper, L. A. (2019). Reducing racial inequities in health: Using what we already know to take action. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(4), 606. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16040606
