¿Understanding Theology and Homosexuality in African-American Communities focuses specifically on helping mental professionals understand the scriptural and historical bases for the negative stance of some African American churches towards same-sex relations, and how that understanding is relevant within the context of mental health care. It provides a summary of the relevant professional literature and examples from clinical practice and/or research. This Brief is a basic reference for social workers, psychologists, counselors and other mental health professionals engaged in direct practice with African American clients and families.

Sana Loue is a Professor and Director in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and the Director of the Center for Minority Public Health of the School of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio. She has secondary appointments in the Departments of Bioethics, Psychiatry, and Global Health. Dr. Loue holds graduate degrees in law (J.D.), epidemiology (Ph.D.), medical anthropology (Ph.D.), social work (M.S.S.A.), and secondary education (M.A.). She is also ordained as an interfaith minister. Dr. Loue's primary research focus is on HIV risk and prevention and family violence in marginalized communities, such as non-English speakers, immigrants, sexual and ethnic/racial minorities, and persons with severe mental illness. Other research interests include forensic epidemiology, severe mental illness, and ethical issues in the conduct of research with vulnerable persons. She has authored over 70 peer-reviewed articles and 58 book chapters, and has authored and/or edited 27 books.

Introduction.- Chapter 1. African Americans: History and Experience as the "Other".- Chapter 2. Revelation and Liberation.- Chapter 3. Same-Sex Relations in Scripture and the African- American Church.- Chapter 4. Moving Forward with Individuals.- Chapter 5. Working with Families and Communities¿.- Conclusion.- Notes.- References.- Index.