ABSTRACT
Generative Fathering is very much consistent with the identity of African American men. Evidenced by the hierarchy of masculinity found even in the names we call each other like “old head,” “OG,” and “Ole School,” following generations revere those who have gone before them and can relate their life’s triumphs and struggles in a manner appealing to the current generation. Generative fathering is not only necessary for transgenerational continuity of African American masculinity but we suggest that it is necessary for the health of elder African American men. African American men who take on the role of fathering, biological and nonbiological, children gain to benefit in their development into later adulthood. The benefits to the community are inarguable. African American men secure in their masculinity and conscious of their identity can revolutionize a community by preparing the next generation of African American men (Lee, 2003; Madhubuti, 2002; Winbush, 2001).
