"Numerous studies over the last decade have shown the negative impacts of the invisible burden of confronting racism on interracial couples. A recent study, conducted in 2024, showed that interracial couples were, on average, more likely to experience discrimination, higher perceived stress, more depressive symptoms, and worse overall self-rated health compared to White couples due to the impact of discrimination."
"When faced with racism-be it in public situations with strangers or with family and friends-feeling that your partner has your back is so important for trust in interracial relationships. Not feeling supported in such situations can be very painful and lead to tense conflict in the relationship. For example, a partner might ignore a racist comment by their family member over dinner, not wanting to engage in conflict, making the other partner feel hurt and alone in their frustration with this family member."
Mismatched responses to racism can erode trust and create tense conflict in interracial relationships. Trauma responses such as fight, flight, freeze, or fawn shape how partners react when confronted with racism. Interracial couples face a greater invisible burden of confronting racism, with a 2024 study finding higher discrimination, perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and worse self-rated health compared to White couples. Feeling that a partner has your back during racist incidents is crucial for maintaining trust. Not feeling supported can cause pain and escalate conflicts, especially when one partner ignores racist remarks to avoid confrontation. Curiosity, open conversations, and a commitment to change support confronting racism as a team.
Read at Psychology Today
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