[Men and the paternal function in Caribbean families.]

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Psychology
• Anthropology

Context:

• Caribbean families exhibit a matrifocal structure, differing from Western nuclear models.
• This structure can lead to misinterpretations of male absence and family pathology.
• Historical and economic factors shape Afro-Caribbean family organization.

Purpose:

• To analyze the functional aspects of matrifocal family structures in the Caribbean.
• To explore the diverse fulfillment of paternal roles within these families.
• To provide clinical insights for supporting Afro-Caribbean families.

Summary:

• Extended matrifocal families adequately address children's socialization requirements.
• Paternal roles are met through various individuals and social groups, supporting child development.
• Clinical interventions should promote flexible, extended family networks for fatherhood concepts.

Impact:

• Challenges the notion of deficiency in matrifocal families.
• Highlights the adaptive capacity of extended kinship systems.
• Informs mental health professionals on culturally sensitive approaches to fatherhood and family support.