Social Spheres of Protection and Threat: The Experiences of Black Men Married to White Women

Abstract

The number of interracial marriages in the United States has increased to one-in-six among recently married couples. Therefore, researchers and clinicians need the knowledge and skills to effectively serve such families. The current qualitative study, part of a larger mixed-methods project, reports on findings from interviews with 10 Black men married to White women. A central theme emerged related to experiences of these Black men of safety, threats, and feeling the need to provide protection for his family across different social spheres related to their interracial relationship. This theme emerged across six social spheres: the Couple, their Children, the men’s Extended Family, In-laws, Friends, and the larger Macrosystem. These six spheres were experienced as protected, threatening, or mixed in terms of safety related to race issues. Direct quotes are provided to illustrate these six spheres and their levels of protection. Implications for clinical practice with interracial couples are offered.