Mixing and matching: Assessing the concomitants of mixed-ethnic relationships

Does the self-esteem or relationship quality of those dating outside their ethnic group differ from those in a same-ethnic relationship? This study ad dresses this question, assessing personal (e.g., self-esteem and clarity) a nd relationship characteristics (commitment, satisfaction, realistic expect ations, the level to which expectations were met, and partner preferences) with an emphasis on ethnic identity. We studied 131 undergraduates, 58 in s ame-ethnic heterosexual relationships (SERs) and 73 from mixed-ethnic heter osexual relationships (MERs), Counter to the assumptions of many lay people and scientists, we found no differences between the two groups. Ethnic ide ntity was more predictive of relationship quality and commitment than was r elationship composition (same versus mixed-ethnic). Furthermore, commitment was significantly associated with the extent to which expectations were me t for members of MERs, but not for those in SERs. Results are discussed in the context of social psychological theories of group biases, impression fo rmation, and prejudice, and consequences for the welfare of mixed-ethnic co uples.