Contemporary US multiple heritage couples, individuals, and families: Issues, concerns, and counseling implications

Interethnic Marriage in the United States: An Introduction

“…According to some social commentators, the election of President Barack Obama in 2008 (and re-election in 2012) signifies the emergence of a "postracial" American society (Kenney & Kenney, 2012). However, racism remains endemic within American society and likely will continue to contribute to relatively low rates of intermarriage for the foreseeable future (Jacobson & Heaton, 2008).…”

Counseling Multiple‐Heritage Couples

“…Historically, unions between diverse individuals have been met with distrust, skepticism, and increased scrutiny (Kenney & Kenney, 2012). As recently as 50 years ago, the United States had laws in place preventing interracial marriage, and it was not until the 1967 landmark Loving v. Virginia case that the Supreme Court banned all laws preventing such pairings (Kenney & Kenney, 2012). Although interracial relationships are now legal, couples entering relationships across racial, ethnic, religious, and language lines may still violate societal norms (Killian, 2003;Lewis, Yancey, & Bletzer, 1997;Root, 2001).…”

“…Similarly, reasons for entering into multiple-heritage pairings are challenged and questioned by families and friends more frequently than reasons for entering into same-heritage relationships (Killian, 2001a). These preconceptions convey to the couple that they are destined to a life of confusion and rejection (Kenney & Kenney, 2012). At the same time, significant others do not take time to gain an understanding of the multiple-heritage relationship (Killian, 2002).…”

“…Historically, unions between diverse individuals have been met with distrust, skepticism, and increased scrutiny (Kenney & Kenney, ). As recently as 50 years ago, the United States had laws in place preventing interracial marriage, and it was not until the 1967 landmark Loving v. Virginia case that the Supreme Court banned all laws preventing such pairings (Kenney & Kenney, ).…”

“…Multiple‐heritage pairings are surrounded by societal myths and misconceptions (Henricksen & Paladino, ). To illustrate, Kenney and Kenney () identified several of the myths about why a person enters into an interracial partnership. Among these myths are to make a statement, curiosity, promiscuity, raising one's status, domination, citizenship, low self‐esteem, and rebellion.…”