An analysis of presently existing research indicates a strong relationship between the culture of the black community (which is traceable to an African heritage), childrearing practices of black families, and the learning and expressive styles of black children. In this paper key studies are reviewed that provide information on cognitive styles and ethnic stylizations that emerge from the childrearing practices of black families. A preliminary analysis was conducted of interviews with older black women who were questioned about their own childhood memories as well as their childrearing practices. The literature and the interviews are examined in an effort to identify categories that will be useful to incorporate into observational studies of the expressive styles of black children. Variations in cognitive style between white and black children are discussed. (Author/RLV)