This course examines emerging theoretical debates and related research issues concerning African American families in the contemporary urban context. A particular emphasis is placed on the role of African American fathers in post-industrial America. The influences of sociological, social psychological, and ecological factors are considered from a multidisciplinary and life-cycle developmental perspective. Attention is given to the need for research on the historical, economic, cultural, and psychological issues in the relationship between African American fathers in both traditional husband-wife and emerging fragile family contexts.