The black executive: a challenge for psychiatry.

The task of developing a body of knowledge about specific problems, both intrapsychic and psychosocial, which influence a black executive's maturation, must be initiated. There is currently a definite interest, among black executives, in obtaining access to appropriate psychotherapeutic intervention. A psychobiographical approach facilitates development of a construct for analysis of, and insight into, transference phenomena that translate into organization based behavioral responses to the black executive. Analysis of frequently encountered organizational ethos and also stimulus-response mechanisms in the black executive lead to formulation of viable conclusions for resolution of conflict. Modes of recognition of specific conflict with authority in the black executive psychotherapy patient include examination of (1) defense mechanisms frequently encountered in response to authority conflicts, (2) stated intentions of the patient in relation to career development, and (3) the affective stance of the patient. Psychobiographical issues very often have a direct developmental influence on black familial conceptualizations of authority. Childrearing practices and parentally based ego ideals and other aspects of development are linked to analogues in adult human behavior frequently observed among black executives. Suggestions for therapeutic directions involve affective and thematic strategies, all contingent upon a productive, informed, therapeutic effort. The therapeutic relationship is a most important element in the treatment strategy with the black executive.