The Ties that Bind: Parenting Practices Used to Ensure Student Success

This study explored the parenting practices that successful adult African Americans experienced during their childhood. The following question led the investigation What is the experience of parenting successful African Americans during their childhood? The investigation employed a qualitative model with a multiple case study design. In-depth details regarding participants' experiences were gained from the use of open-ended interview questions. Rearing practices as experienced by the participants were obtained. The multiple case study revealed commonalities in the parenting practices used in rearing these "successful" (as defined in this study to mean one who has the ability and means i.e., employment and or education to support him/her and or a family while maintaining a respectful community persona; Gray, 1998) African Americans. A composite of the revealed themes included the intuitive nature of parents, the parental role in rearing, cultural decisions influenced by the environment, the influences of positive engagement, the unexpected influences of siblings, and preparations made for the future.