The Experiences of African American Women In Interracial Relationships with Caucasian Men: A Qualitative Study

Eight African American women were recruited and interviewed for this qualitative study. They shared their experiences about being in an interracial relationship with a Caucasian man. The interview results revealed the emergence of seven categories and 14 themes. The categories consisted of (a) familial, cultural, and societal messages; (b) earlier experiences; (c) experiences of being in an interracial relationship; (d) impact of interracial relationship on African American identity; (e) external reactions to the relationship; (f) coping with and making sense of negative external reactions; and (g) love is not about race. A theoretical model was developed based on the findings. The study's clinical implications, limitations, and suggestions for future research are discussed.