ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the structure such as: describing the function of theoretical frameworks; articulating the inadequate use of frameworks in prior inquiry on Black men; and presenting few models from the extant literature on Black men that have been either used or designed in educational research. It provides an extensive overview of theoretical frameworks relevant to Black men, covering a plethora of topical areas: gifted education; economically disadvantaged, high-achieving men; athletes; and gay men. The chapter focuses on the collection of research lenses that we recommend for use as theoretical frameworks for future inquiry. Theory is the lifeblood of social science investigation, providing direction in nearly all empirical areas of inquiry. Presenting models and theories applicable to the Black male experience in postsecondary education is a particularly salient contribution to the scholarly literature. In contrast, qualitative research tends to be inductive; as such, theory serves as a guiding lens for which results are interpreted.
