Identity and Interethnic Marriage in the United States [Hardcover]

Drawing on psychological and sociological perspectives as well as quantitative and qualitative data, Identity and Interethnic Marriage in the United Statesconsiders the ways the self and social identity are linked to the dynamics of interethnic marriage. Bringing together the classic theoretical contributions of George Herbert Mead, Erving Goffman, and Erik Erikson with contemporary research on ethnic identity inspired by Jean Phinney, this book argues that the self and social identityespecially ethnic identityare reflected in individuals complex journey from singlehood to interethnic marriage within the United States.

1. Social Behaviorism Perspectives on Interethnic Marriage in the U.S. 2. The Self as Implicated in Interethnic Marriage 3. Identity as Implicated in Interethnic Marriage 4. Personal and Social Identities as Implicated in Interethnic Marriage 5. Gender and Ethnic Identities as Implicated in Interethnic Marriage 6. Racial and Cultural Identities as Implicated in Interethnic Marriage 7. Religious and National Identities as Implicated in Interethnic Marriage 8. Taking Stock of the Literature on Identity and Interethnic Marriage in the United States

Identity and Interethnic Marriage in the United States offers a unique perspective on the dispositional factors that predict peoples likelihood of marrying interethnically. Given the growing number of interethnic marriages in the United States and other countries, this book will further social scientists understanding of what motivates individuals to enter (or avoid) such marriages, and will contribute to scholarship on diversity and close relationships more generally.

Stanley O. Gaines, Jr.is Senior Lecturer of Psychology at Brunel University London, UK.