Marital Quality in Black and White Marriages

This article investigates differences in marital quality in Black and White marriages. The specific focus is the role of spousal behavior and how this differs by race. Using national sample data, the author found several things. First, there are significant differences in marital quality across race. This is a general finding that has been reported in previous research. Second, Blacks and Whites differentially characterize their spouses. Blacks are significantly more likely to report that the spouse has affairs, hits or pushes, wastes money, or does not make them feel loved. Therefore, an important reason for race differences in marital quality is that Blacks and Whites experience different levels of positive and negative behavior from their spouses. These factors completely explain the association of race and marital quality. The author concludes with a discussion of implications for future research.

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