A Conceptualization of Spirituality Among African American Young Adults

Background: Spirituality is an important concept for many African Americans and has become a significant part of the survival narrative within the context of historical and contemporary micro and macro aggressions. While several studies have explored the significance of spirituality in the lives of African American adults and the elderly, relatively few have examined African American young adults’ conceptualizations of spirituality. Addressing this major gap in extant literature is the primary aim of this study.

Methods: Informed by the theory of emerging adulthood, 40 in-depth interviews were conducted with African American college students between the ages of 18 to 28 years who were attending a historically Black University within the Northeastern United States. Transcribed data were analyzed using grounded theory.

Results: The overall sample was comprised of 38% men (n =15) and 62% women (n= 25). The majority of participants identified as straight or heterosexual (98%, n = 39) and African American/Black, 87% (n =35). Two primary themes emerged from the data with regards to participants’ conceptualizations of spirituality: 1) a religious definition, centered on God or a higher power, with a behavioral component focused on denominational affiliation and participation; and 2) a non-religious definition, with the absence of any religious affiliation or reference to a higher power/God, but with an emphasis on individual and community responsibility. These themes reflected two relational dimensions. The first could be characterized as a relationship between individuals and a supreme being. The second theme reflected a relationship between individuals and community, with several participants endorsing multiple themes. This study also documented that males often endorsed spirituality, but within less organized religious frameworks when compared to females.

Conclusion: Overall findings suggest that in order to provide culturally appropriate services practitioners and other service providers would need to explore and address the variations in spirituality expressed among their African American clients who consider themselves spiritual.  What is more, findings demonstrate that it may be important for practitioners to become attuned to possible gender differences in spiritual praxis, in order to provide more effective services for this population.