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Bentley Stafford Hylton, Psy.D., is a 2026 graduate of the Psy.D. Program in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University, New England

Dissertation Committee:

  • Monique S. Bowen, PhD, Chairperson
  • Ashland Thompson, PsyD, Committee Member
  • Bryana White, PhD, Committee Member

Keywords

black. masculinity. provider. Generation Z. qualitative. marriage. heterosexual. men. dating. single. relationships

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

This study explores how expectations associated with the male provider role identity impact the psychological well-being of Black American Generation Z (“Gen Z”) men. Using a qualitative design, approximately 20 participants were surveyed to examine how efforts to meet provider role expectations influence well-being, as well as how Gen Z Black men construct and define masculinity within contemporary sociocultural contexts. While prior research has examined Black masculinity, limited attention has been given to its intersection with provider role expectations, particularly among emerging adults. Historically, messages about masculinity and marital roles have been transmitted through community institutions, leadership, and cultural narratives; however, shifting societal influences, including both conservative and justice-oriented perspectives, may shape how Gen Z Black men interpret and enact these roles. These evolving expectations may contribute to increased psychological pressure and internal conflict. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Model and Cross’s Nigrescence Model, this study examines how environmental systems and racial identity development inform perceptions of masculinity and provider role expectations. Findings aim to inform culturally responsive approaches in marriage and family therapy and broader clinical practice. Core research questions include: (a) How Do the Expectations of the Male Provider Role Identity Impact the Psychological Well-being of Black American Gen Z men? (b) How are Black Gen Z men defining masculinity and the provider role? (c) What behavioral health needs or internal conflicts emerge from their experiences in relation to these perceived role characterizations? (d) What is the role of psychotherapy in helping Black Gen Z men navigate their experiences with these constructs, and where does it fall short in meeting their behavioral health needs? (e) What does/will this generation of 18-to-28-year-old Black men require of clinical psychology practitioners, particularly those working in the area of MFT? This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).

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ORCID iD: 0009-0003-9289-2535

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