As a published author and dedicated researcher, my dissertation, Modern Love Stories: A Narrative Inquiry of Interracial Couples, is now available through ProQuest. This study explores the complexities of interracial, intercultural, and interethnic romantic relationships, offering a deeper understanding of the intersection between cultural narratives, attachment experiences, and couple dynamics. My work contributes to the Marriage and Family Therapy field by deepening the understanding of love and partnership in diverse relationships. For those interested in exploring my research findings and methodology, the full dissertation can be accessed on ProQuest.

Abstract

Interracial relationships exist at the intersection of personal, cultural, and societal influences, yet limited research has examined how early attachment relationships and cultural narratives shape these partnerships. This study aimed to fill this gap by exploring the lived experiences of two interracial couples using a qualitative narrative inquiry approach grounded in social constructivism and attachment theory. By entering the couples’ narratives, this research offers a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing interracial romantic relationships.

The findings highlight how each partner’s early childhood relationships and cultural background inform their beliefs about romantic love, the purpose of coupling, and how they make meaning within their relationship. Through thematic analysis, four key themes emerged across both couples:

• Family Expectations: Navigating cultural and familial expectations regarding partnership, marriage, and identity.
• Balancing Power Dynamics and Gender Roles: Exploring the intersection of cultural norms, gender expectations, and relational equity.
• Developing an Intercultural Couple Partnership: Understanding how partners negotiate cultural differences and establish a shared relationship identity.
• The Benefits of Culturally Informed Couples Therapy: Highlighting the importance of integrating cultural awareness into therapeutic interventions to strengthen interracial relationships.

This study underscores the significance of culturally responsive clinical approaches in couples therapy and offers practical strategies for therapists working with interracial partners. This research provides valuable insights for scholars and practitioners in the Marriage and Family Therapy field by deepening our understanding of how cultural and attachment narratives shape relationships.

Assess the Full Dissertation on ProQuest

https://www.proquest.com/docview/3157087774

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