Integrating Two Families: Factors Influencing Relationship Satisfaction Among Intercultural Couples

Abstract

Though rates of people dating and marrying outside of their own culture continue to rise across the U.S., families may struggle to accept this choice. In turn, the family’s attitudes toward one’s partner can impact relational dynamics of an intercultural couple. Framed within Ecological Systems Theory, this study examines individual, couple, and family level influences on relationship satisfaction among individuals in intercultural relationships. Participants ( N = 264) self-identified as being in a relationship with someone who was of a different race, ethnicity, or culture and completed a brief online survey. Results from a hierarchical regression show that psychological well-being (psychological distress, satisfaction with life), conflict management strategies (constructive, destructive), and family acceptance account for 58% of the variance of relationship satisfaction indicating they are significant factors in overall relationship satisfaction among individuals in intercultural relationships. Furthermore, family acceptance moderated the connection between both constructive and destructive conflict management styles and relationship satisfaction; however, family acceptance did not moderate psychological well-being and relationship satisfaction. Findings shed light on the importance of individual psychological well-being, couples’ conflict management strategies, and family acceptance as significant contributors to relationship satisfaction among those in intercultural relationships.