Relationships are tough, but how does one navigate through the added pressure of being an interracial couple? We’re here to help.
Being in charge of your emotions will definitely help reduce interracial tension, however, it’s best to put preventative measures in place so you don’t find yourself overreacting unnecessarily.
This post details 5 of the real life struggles experienced in interracial relationships and what you can do to overcome them.
How would life hit you differently if it was so easy to enjoy your choice of partner?
1. Don’t shy away from discussing racism
It’s a fact that racism exists in our world, now more apparent than ever. Most people however don’t want to talk about it. Many interracial couples think that their passion for each other will somehow make racism irrelevant.
However, racial discrimination can be a real problem when a partner’s family doesn’t accept their spouse. Many mixed ethnicity couples try to ignore or brush off disparaging remarks and awkwardness. However, this may cause communication breakdown and problems in the future.
Communication, as always, is the key to success. Whenever anyone is facing an issue with the other person, address them immediately before they turn into a bigger issue than they are.
Validating each other’s feelings and a level headed discussion is of utmost importance if your partner’s parents do not accept you due to your skin colour.
Taking a resistant or defensive stance will only cause more friction and tension. Challenging people’s beliefs tends to lead to arguments and heartache.
2. Unhealthy assumptions between interracial partners
When you are in an interracial relationship, it is vital not to assume your partner’s preferences based on their ethnicity or race.
For instance, constantly talking about rice may make your Asian partner feel offended. Your assumption that Asian people love rice can easily appear to be a stereotype. Or dating a German and constantly bringing him (or her) beer and schnitzel,when your German date doesn’t drink alcohol and is a health-conscious vegan.
3. Your boundaries may disappear
When bonding over facing similar struggles like systemic racism on the daily, couples oftentimes tend to get closer to each other, enduring the same pain. However, this may also lead to lack of boundaries in a relationship.
A case in point is thinking because they have shared everything, they also need to check each other’s phones. This surely is a recipe for disaster since individual posts and messages can be misunderstood and taken out of context as many of us know very well.
Privacy and digital boundaries are of gravel importance in today’s day and age.
Did we miss anything? Share your relationship stories and let us know how you handle the struggles of being an interracial couple in the comments!