Black-White Identity Development: Understanding the Impact of Personal and Collective Racial Identity Factors on Interracial Marriages

This article presents findings from a phenomenological study that sought to understand the influence of race on the lived experiences and spousal relationships within Black-White multiracial marriages. Through the use of semistructured interviews, this qualitative study examined the role played by race and racial identity in individual development within fiveBlack-White interracial marriages. Analysis of the interviews revealed three major themes: (a) connection/disconnection with a racial group; (b) marital identity, and (c) personal identity. As there continues to be a growth in the numbers of interracial couples, it is essential for marriage and family counselors to understand the impact racial identity has on the many aspects of relationship development.