Conial Caldwell
About Conial
Dr. Caldwell's research focuses on Black fatherhood, racial socialization, and family processes within contexts of structural inequality. Overarching themes in Dr. Caldwell's scholarship include how Black fathers prepare children to navigate racialized institutions, identity development, and the intersections of masculinity and care. Dr. Caldwell serves through community-engaged scholarship, public writing, and collaborations that translate research on Black families into insights for educators, practitioners, and policymakers, with a broader agenda that frames fathers as central to how youth navigate inequality.
Contributions
In the News
Publications
Looks at how Black fathers’ conversations about race, known as “The Talk,” are shown in today’s movies, TV, and news. Finds that media often highlights the seriousness and protective side of these talks, but sometimes misses the love, pride, and everyday guidance that fathers also give.
Looks at how Black fathers teach their daughters about race and prepare them for a world that can be unfair or prejudiced. Finds that fathers combine pride and encouragement with practical guidance on handling racism, showing love while also helping their daughters stay safe and confident.
Explores how Kendrick Lamar used his 2025 Super Bowl halftime performance to highlight Black culture and identity. Finds that the show boldly celebrated Blackness, mixing powerful visuals, music, and messages to challenge stereotypes and demand recognition on a massive stage.
Examines how Black fathers have conversations with their children—often called “The Talk”—about race and safety, using photos to capture their experiences. Finds that fathers use these talks to teach awareness, resilience, and pride, blending caution about racism with love and guidance.