The Consumption of Black Erotic Literature and Relationship Seeking Patterns in Heterosexual African American Women

As the readership of black erotic literature continues to increase, there is a higher likelihood of some influence on readers' partner-seeking behaviors and relationship patterns. With statistics pointing toward more widespread contraction of STDs and HIV among Black women in the US, as well as a decline in marriage rates in the African American population, specifically Black women over the age of 30, the question remains as to what is impacting the success of romantic relationships, as well as what experiences are Black women having in particular, in relationships with Black men.;The current study sought to explore the perceived role that consuming Black Erotic fiction plays in constructing how African American women view romantic partnerships with African American men, using a phenomenological approach. There were 18 total participants in this study; nine dyads interviewed, ranging in age from 23 to 44. Major themes present were first interaction with black erotic literature, social supports with which participants felt comfortable or embarrassed in discussing the literature, participants' quick access to negative stereotypes within the black community and also their general perception that black erotic literature had little to no impact on their relationship habits.