TPC-DIGEST-Vol3Issue3

TPC D igest 37 The Professional Counselor –DIGEST Volume 3, Issue 3 http:/ /tpcjournal.nbcc.or g © 2013 NBCC Inc., & Affiliates Full article: Henry, W. J. (2013). The Black gender gap: A commentary on intimacy and identity issues of Black college women. The Professional Counselor , 3 , 185–193. identities. Helms’ Womanist Identity Development model and Cross’ Black Identity Development theory are used to contextualize the impact that the quest for long-term intimate relationships has upon the identity formation of young Black women during their college years, as well as the role that identity development plays in these women’s dating decisions. These theories suggest that young Black college women who have progressed to the final stage of Helms’ and Cross’ models, internalization, may make better dating decisions that are grounded in a positive self-identity. Mental health professionals and student affairs practitioners are uniquely positioned to assist young Black women in navigating the complexities of pursuing and engaging in intimate relationships in college. These groups of helping professionals must not only adopt a culturally relevant counseling framework, but also must be aware of culturally appropriate counseling techniques in order to more successfully accompany young Black college women on their journey to develop intimate relationships and a healthy sense of self.