2005 Chapters (Layout Features)

Interracial Dating and Marriage

Jordan, Alysse D.

With few notable exceptions, critical explorations of interracial romantic relationships have emerged predominantly from the social and behavioral sciences. From the social structuralist theories of sociologists such as Robert K. Merton to examinations of identity and interpersonal development by psychologists like Maria P.P. Root, the contributions of social science researchers to the body of literature has far surpassed that of other fields. This chapter is therefore intended to provide a review of the literature on the legal and social history of intermarriage in the United States by focusing on research in the areas of cultural anthropology, law and policy, psychology, sociology, and social work. Research that involves couples outside the United States has been excluded, as have biographical, fictional, and sensationalized accounts of interracial relationships.