Ethnic Racial Socialization (ERS) is a specific form of socialization that African-American parents use to respond to culturally specific challenges (James, Coard, Fine & Rudy, 2018). A large component of expanding the ERS process requires including Gendered Racial Socialization (GRS) dimensions by exploring gendered racial micro aggressions and discerning differences. Additionally, it is important to note that a thorough review of the ERS literature confirmed the lack of empirical research on ERS and paternal figures (Priest et al., 2016). As such, this pilot study, is an initial investigation to explore ways in which African American fathers are socializing their daughters to address gendered racial microaggressions. Through in-depth semi-structured interviews, results will include messages that are transmitted, modes of transmission and concerns pertaining to gendered racial microaggressions their daughters will experience. By shedding light on this construct, African-American fathers could be equipped with better effective ERS practices geared at the varied experiences their African American daughters endure.

The United States has the highest teen pregnancy and adolescent STD rates of any industrialized nation. Numerous factors are involved in adolescent sexual decision-making and the social-ecological framework suggests that there are multiple levels of influence on adolescent development, including familial. Utilizing survey data from the Virginia Abstinence Education Initiative (VAEI), this project specifically explores paternal influences on adolescent sexual behavior and beliefs by examining paternal residence in the home, perceived paternal figure sexual beliefs, and father-child relationship factors. Results indicate that paternal figures influence their daughters' and sons' sexual behaviors as well as beliefs. Differences in paternal figure influence across gender were found as well. Those endeavoring to develop more effective teen pregnancy prevention and abstinence education programs may consider the involvement of paternal figures in future efforts.