Summary
This paper provides a critical analysis of theoretical application in the study of family structure, examining the extent to which dominant approaches align with anti-racist principles. First, we examine the history of family-structure research and the ways in which its theoretical foundations have patriarchal and White supremacist influences. Second, we demonstrate how current family-structure theories remain focused on family-level explanations of family-structure effects, without addressing the ways in which racist policies and institutions have created family-level disparities. Third, we argue that advancing anti-racist theory in family-structure research will require a paradigmatic shift from structuralist and postpositivist perspectives to critical perspectives.

Objectives

Subject Codes: 
Population Codes: 
Method and Approach Codes: 

Summary
There remain valuable opportunities for family-structure researchers to apply anti-racist principles to their research methods. First, we suggest researchers build their capacity to effectively approach the study of family structure from an anti-racist perspective by cultivating a set of prerequisite skills and competencies. Second, we highlight how an anti-racist perspective can be foregrounded in various stages of family-structure research. Third, we argue the application of anti-racist methods in the study of family structure does not end when studies conclude but reflects a general approach and commitment to academic activities aimed at promoting positive change—a process of becoming a scholar-activist.

Objectives

Subject Codes:  
Population Codes: 
Method and Approach Codes: 

Summary
Family structure and education remain dominant and enduring explanations for understanding racial income inequality. We present racial stratification as an alternative perspective to emphasize the social construction of race and the impact of racialized space to unequally distribute resources. We integrate tenets from Critical Race Theory with concepts from racialized space theory to understand racial income inequality. Our results show racialized space, rather than family structure and education, better characterizes income inequality among Black families. Additionally, white married families with higher levels of education living in predominately white spaces have incomes $20,000 higher than Black families with the same characteristics.

Objectives

Subject Codes: 
Population Codes: 
Method and Approach Codes: