Abstract
This article explores intimate partner support between inter-racial couples in which both partners have a minoritized racial identity (or identities); inter-racial couples in which one partner is White/Caucasian identified; and intra-racial couples in which both partners identify as the same minoritized racial identity. Utilizing qualitative survey research methodology, (n = 48) participants shared their experiences with race-related discrimination, stress, and intimate partner support. The results of the study indicated that dating, partnering, coupling or marrying intra-racially serves as a major protective factor for receiving support within an intimate relationship when coping with racial discrimination, stress and traumatic microaggressions. The article highlights the importance of critical self-awareness and consciousness utilizing Critical Race Theory (CRT) when providing clinical services to couples that include at least one partner of a minoritized racial/ethnic identity group. Finally, clinical practice recommendations will also be included for couples’ therapist working with interracial couples utilizing an antiracist and Critical Race Theoretical approach.
Highlights
IntroductionIntimate partners play a significant role when it comes to providing emotional support in the relationship and how one validates, affirms, acknowledges and comforts their partner when experiencing race-related trauma, stress, discrimination and microaggressions is vital to mitigating mental health-related symptoms (Carter & Sant-Barket, 2015; Khaylis, Waelde, & Brice, 2007; Pieterse et al, 2010)
This article explores intimate partner support between inter-racial couples in which both partners have a minoritized racial identity; inter-racial couples in which one partner is White/Caucasian identified; and intra-racial couples in which both partners identify as the same minoritized racial identity
The research question for this study was: how do partners of the same racial identity groups; different minoritized racial identity groups; and of Caucasian (White) identity support their partners of color differently when said partner experiences something that they perceive as racist? The hypothesis was that couples of the same racial identity group will know how to support each other best, while partners from other minoritized racial identities will support each other but still lack understanding and ways to respond that are validating and affirming; while White partners will attempt to support their partners but will become defensive during the subsequent discussions around race (DiAngelo, 2018)
Summary
Intimate partners play a significant role when it comes to providing emotional support in the relationship and how one validates, affirms, acknowledges and comforts their partner when experiencing race-related trauma, stress, discrimination and microaggressions is vital to mitigating mental health-related symptoms (Carter & Sant-Barket, 2015; Khaylis, Waelde, & Brice, 2007; Pieterse et al, 2010) For this reason, the way couples empathize, validate and provide support to one another around racial injustices; race-based traumatic and stressful microaggressive experiences in society is essential in 2020 and beyond (Carter, 2007; Currie et al, 2013; Flores et al, 2010; Torres & Taknint, 2015). Based on the results from this study recommendation for couples’ therapists who are providing therapeutic services to interracial couples navigate through these nuanced interpersonal dynamics in today’s society will be explored utilizing Critical Race Theory tenets
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