Approval Matters Less When the Self Expands: Self-Expansion as a Buffer Against Low Perceived Friend Approval in Same-Gender Interracial Relationships

Same-gender interracial couples often encounter unique stressors, including disapproval from friends, which can undermine relationship quality. Drawing on self-expansion theory, we tested whether engaging in novel self-expanding activities with a partner buffers against the negative effects of low perceived friend approval. At Time 1, participants (N = 205) in same-gender interracial relationships were randomly assigned to either a self-expansion condition, in which they completed a novel activity with their partner, or a control condition, in which they were given no additional instructions. As predicted, there was a significant interaction between the self-expansion condition and friend approval at Time 1 on relationship quality at Time 2. Such that, individuals in the self-expansion condition reported higher satisfaction and commitment at Time 2, even when they perceived low levels of friend approval. These effects held when controlling for relationship quality at Time 1. Findings highlight self-expansion as a relational process that promotes resilience against social network stigma, underscoring the importance of novel, growth-oriented activities for supporting relationship well-being in same-gender interracial relationships.