Black Americans primarily learn the meanings associated with being a Black man or Black woman through their closest personal relationships, with mothers playing the most significant role. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center in June 2025, familial bonds and personal connections far outweigh the influence of media and community institutions in shaping these views of identity.
The study, which surveyed 4,271 Black adults in the United States between June 16 and 29, 2025, found that roughly two-thirds of Black men (65%) and 68% of Black women identify their mothers as having a great deal or a fair amount of influence on their views of their identity. Other influential figures include fathers, spouses or partners, friends, and extended family members, all of whom were cited by half or more of the respondents. Overall, 79% of Black men and 83% of Black women stated that at least one of these close connections has significantly shaped their perspective.
In contrast, media sources are viewed as having a considerably smaller impact. Only 36% of Black men and 39% of Black women said entertainment media—including television, movies, and music—influenced their identity. Social media's influence was lower, cited by 24% of Black men and 31% of Black women, while podcasts had the least impact at 16% and 18%, respectively. The data indicates a generational divide, as younger Black adults are more likely than those aged 50 and older to be influenced by social media. Specifically, 41% of Black women under 50 reported a large influence from social media platforms compared to just 16% of those 50 and older; a similar trend appeared among men, with 29% under 50 compared to 17% in the older cohort.
Beyond statistical influence, the survey utilized open-ended questions to capture the nature of these lessons. Black men frequently highlighted themes of responsibility, hard work, and cultural pride. One man in his mid-40s emphasized the importance of not running from responsibilities and consistently breaking stereotypes of Black masculinity to overcome societal racism. Another respondent in his early 70s noted that the most critical lesson was being responsible for those under one's care and managing affairs with integrity.
Black women's responses focused on self-worth, resilience, and the complexities of navigating society. One woman in her early 60s expressed learning that she is 'enough' and can simultaneously be 'soft and fierce.' Another respondent in her mid-30s discussed the pressure to always appear 'put together' to counter the prejudices that judge Black women as a group rather than as individuals. Other common themes included unconditional self-love and the drive to overcome limitations, with one woman in her late 60s stating that 'I can't' is not in her vocabulary.
The research was supported by The Pew Charitable Trusts and the People & Voices Initiative, incorporating guidance from academic experts in political science, sociology, and social development. The survey sample was representative of the U.S. Black adult population, including those identifying as Black alone or in combination with other races or Hispanic identities.
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