Black and White Couples: Exploring the Role of Religiosity on Perceived Racial Discrimination and Relationship Satisfaction

Abstract

Abstract The current study set out to examine the influence of religiosity on the relationship between interracial Black-White (IBW) couples’ perceived discrimination and marital satisfaction. Data from 178 Black-White couples were used to test a common fate moderation model. Results revealed a negative association between partners’ perceived discrimination and marital satisfaction. Also, White partners’ religiosity was found to moderate the effects of discrimination on satisfaction, whereby a higher level of religiosity contributed to higher satisfaction when couples experienced discrimination. Results suggested that religiosity may be an important resource to help Black-White couples manage discrimination stress.