Status of Interracial Marriage in the United States: A Qualitative Analysis of Interracial Spouse Perceptions

Abstract

International Journal of S ocial Science Studies Vol. 2, No. 1; January 201 4 ISSN 2324 - 8033 E - ISSN 2324 - 8041 Published by Redfame Publishing URL: http://ijsss.redfame.com 16 Status of Interracial Marriage in the United States: A Qualitative Analysis of Interracial Spouse Perceptions Richard Lewis Correspondence: Richard Lewis, Jr., Department of Sociology , University of Texas at San Antonio , San Antonio, Texas . Tel: 1 - 201 - 458 - 6759 . E - mail: richard.lewis@utsa.edu Received: August 2 , 201 3 Accepted: August 26 , 201 3 Available online : O ctober 21 , 201 3 doi: 10.11 1 14/ijsss.v 2 i1. 1 89 URL: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.11 1 14/ijsss.v 2 i1. 1 89 Abstract This article investigates the major issues facing interracial marriage from the perspective of individuals currently in these unions. Differential assimilation is used as a conceptual model to focus this exploration. The research methodology employs a qualitative approach based on open - ended questions embedded in a larger survey questionnaire administered to a national non - random sample of interracially married individuals in 2007. The findings were examined for three issue areas; social accep tance of interracial marriages, negative perceptions within society of interracial unions, and perceived differential treatment of interracial marriages. Responses from individuals in black/white marriages tended to show that these unions have more difficu lty in society in comparison to those without a black spouse.