Date of Award

9-1-2025

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Esther Lynch

Abstract

Interracial couples may encounter unique challenges in their relationships due to negative perceptions such as racial prejudice, discrimination, disapproval, cultural stereotypes, and opposition from society and family. These challenges can be especially difficult when the disapproval comes from their parents. This study explored how perceived parental approval influences interracial romantic relationship outcomes, specifically relationship satisfaction, commitment, and closeness. Data were collected from individuals in interracial relationships (N ≈ 80) using the Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS), the Investment Model Scale (IMS), the Relationship Closeness Inventory (RCI), and the Parent-Adult Child Relationship Questionnaire (PACQ). A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was conducted to examine differences across three parental approval groups, and a moderation regression analysis was also conducted to examine potential moderating effect of interdependence. The MANOVA yielded no significant results across all hypotheses and follow up ANOVA was also non-significant (all p >.355) The moderation regressions showed nonsignificant main and interaction effects (all ps ≥ .190). Descriptively, outcomes trended in the predicted directions—dual-approval couples scored highest on satisfaction and commitment—but the effect sizes were very small (partial η²s ≤ .03) and a post-hoc power check indicated only 38 % power to detect effects that small. Overall, the findings reveal a complex relationship between parental approval, interdependence, and relationship outcomes among interracial couples that was not captured by the present design.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS