African American Fraternities and Their Impact on Black Men's Mental Health

This research examines the role of historically Black Greek-lettered fraternities and their impact on Black men's mental health. The evolution of historically Black Greek-lettered fraternities illuminates Black men's historical and contemporary struggles in America. Since 1906, African American fraternities in the “Divine Nine'' have existed. The Divine Nine is a colloquial term to refer to all nine fraternities and sororities that are a part of the National Panhellenic Council (NPHC). For over a century, these organizations have continued to create programs that support Black male success and achievement. Behavioral health also has been supported due to their organization's influence on forming Black men's identity, values, and wellness. The purpose of this thesis is to reveal how Black Greek-lettered fraternities have supported the maintenance of Black men's mental health. By examining concepts and events in the past centuries, this thesis will explore the role of Black fraternities in the Black male community. First, I will share my African-American fraternity experience to help enlighten readers on my inspiration for this research topic. Second, there will be a historical overview of the conditions that created the urgency for historically Black fraternities to exist. Third, I will explore the context of Black fraternities and sororities in American society, emphasizing the history, contributions, and impact of the specific five Black Greek-lettered fraternities in the NPHC. I will share differing perspectives on fraternity activities and rituals that point to productive ways of supporting Black men’s mental health. For example, I will emphasize the international and collegiate perspective of the historically Black fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. I conclude the thesis with a summary of the overall contributions of Black fraternities and their impact on Black men's mental health. This thesis proposes that throughout time, Black Greek-lettered fraternities have positively impacted Black men's mental health by providing support networks, community, and a sense of belonging.