Growing together, knowing together: Dynamics of interracial parenting of mixed-race children

Abstract

Objective

The purpose of this study was to understand how interracial couples collaboratively describe and make meaning of co-parenting their mixed-race children.

Background

Parenting for interracial couples has become more complex as matters related to race have been pushed to the forefront of public discourse. Existing research often focuses on individual parents' retrospective accounts of co-parenting mixed-race children, with findings that vary depending on the parent's racial identity and gender. Notably these studies have predominately centered on the experiences of mothers, leaving a gap in understanding the perspectives of fathers and the dynamics between both parents in co-parenting relationships.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six interracial couples in Toronto, Canada, about co-parenting school-aged (6–12 years) mixed-race children. The couples, aged 38–49, were in long-term relationships (15+ years), married or in common-law unions, and identified as middle class. Data were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

Results showed that meanings ascribed to co-parenting experiences varied across three relationship phases: courtship and early stages of the interracial relationship; becoming parents and early parenting experiences; and co-parenting school-aged mixed-race children. Interactions revealed that navigating the journey of co-parenting mixed-race children involved an intricate process of mutual growth for couples. Each stage of the relationship catalyzed deeper understandings and fostered resilient familial bonds.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the unique dynamics of interracial co-parenting, underscoring the pivotal role of shared learning in shaping familial dynamics ultimately contributing to more inclusive narratives around family and parenting in diverse societies.