Why This Research Matters

Black fathers have always played a powerful role in shaping the emotional lives of their sons, yet research has often overlooked or undervalued these contributions. This study is changing that.

Single Fathers Network, in partnership with Arizona State University, is conducting a nationwide research study to understand how Black fathers emotionally socialize their Black sons from birth through age eight. Funded by the Spencer Foundation and led by Dr. Evandra Catherine, Research Professor at ASU, this work centers the voices, experiences, and wisdom of Black fathers.

What This Study Does

Rather than focusing on what's missing, this research lifts up what Black fathers are already doing: the everyday lessons, the quiet moments of reassurance, the cultural wisdom passed down through generations.

Participating fathers complete a short questionnaire, join a guided group conversation (Village Session) with other Black fathers, and sit for a one-on-one interview with the research team. The goal is to build a body of knowledge rooted in real experiences that can inform better educational practices and family support systems for years to come.

What Your Donation Supports

The Spencer Foundation grant covers core research costs. Your donation helps fund the community infrastructure that makes this study possible:

Father recruitment and outreach across the country
Study coordination, scheduling, and participant communication
Village Session facilitation and logistics
Technology and tools for virtual and in-person participation
Awareness and promotion so more fathers can share their stories

Study Timeline

Recruitment opens: July 2026
Enrollment closes: September 2026
Data collection: Late Fall 2026 through Spring 2027
Study concludes: February 2028

About the Lead Researcher

Dr. Evandra Catherine (Ph.D., MPA, IMH-E) is a Research Professor at Arizona State University, Early Childhood Consultant, and a member of the Children's Equity Project. She serves as the Principal Investigator for this Spencer Foundation-funded study and is a trusted partner of Single Fathers Network.

About Single Fathers Network

Single Fathers Network is a Phoenix-based 501(c)(3) public charity that strengthens single fathers and their children through support, resources, and advocacy. We deliver services through four Centers of Impact: Family Development, Health and Wellness, Family Law, and Financial Education.

EIN: 92-1620401

"When Black fathers speak, the world has much to learn."

Support Fatherhood Research: Black Fathers Raising Emotionally Resilient Sons

A Spencer Foundation-funded study led by Dr. Evandra Catherine of ASU and Single Fathers Network

Team Leaderboard

The Research Team