Relational schemas, hostile romantic relationships, and beliefs about marriage among young African American adults
- 11 May 2011
- journal article
- review article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Journal of Social and Personal Relationships
- Vol. 29 (1), 77-101
- https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407511406897
Abstract
The present study tests a developmental model designed to explain the romantic relationship difficulties and reluctance to marry often reported for African Americans. Using longitudinal data from a sample of approximately 400 African American young adults, we examine the manner in which race-related adverse experiences during late childhood and early adolescence give rise to the cynical view of romantic partners and marriage held by many young African Americans. Our results indicate that adverse circumstances disproportionately suffered by African American youth (viz., harsh parenting, family instability, discrimination, criminal victimization, and financial hardship) promote distrustful relational schemas that lead to troubled dating relationships, and that these negative relationship experiences, in turn, encourage a less positive view of marriage.Keywords
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