Identifying the Benefits of Black Owned Barbershops in the African American Community

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to investigate why African American men are less likely to seek mental health support in conventional settings. Black-owned barbershops are a substantial presence in the Black community as they offer a dual purpose. Barbershops not only create a sense of male confidence internally and externally but offer an unorthodox way of healing. Insight into the perceptions, attitudes, and insights were gathered to acquire helpful information to contribute to more positive outcomes for African American men in mental health. Semi-structured interviews provided data to find common themes among 10 African American male participants to derive perceptions and attitudes towards Black barbershops as locales for healing. This study may introduce significant information that will help promote the importance of human relationships and community resources among African American males.