Black and White Interracial Couples: Managing Relational Disapproval Through Facework

This study examined the types of responses Black and White interracial couples used when anticipating or after experiencing a face threat due to racism or prejudice and their facework strategies used in alleviating those threats. Thirty-eight interviews were conducted with 19 Black and White interracial couples involved in a romantic relationship. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Data analysis indicated that interracial couples believed they had to respond to racism or prejudice they encountered. To mitigate face threats, couples used preventive and corrective facework strategies. By the types of preventive and corrective facework used, the authors conclude that interracial couples believe they are helping to bridge the racial divide in the United States.