Racial Preferences in Dating

Jayla N. Simms
Dr. Brian Ott, Faculty Mentor

In the psychological literature, “sexual racism,” or the consideration of racial identity as a qualifying factor in romantic partners, is a contested concept.  Much of the debate involves questioning whether sexual racism is “actual” racism, as some view racial preferences in dating as largely unharmful, personal preferences instead of clear examples of racial discrimination.  Evidence for the existence of sexual racism is based on analyses of online dating profiles where it has been argued that discrimination based on racial dating preference has been normalized and tolerated. In this project, I intend to interview interracial couples on campus to identify whether they have experienced or witnessed resistance to their relationship.  Additionally, I intend on interviewing students to see gauge racial dating preferences and whether they have experienced any cases of sexual racism. This pilot study will contribute to the existing literature by talking to individuals about their actual experiences.

Keywords: race and ethnicity, dating preferences, romantic and sexual relationships, sexual racism, personal preferences, racism, undergraduate students

Topic(s):Psychology
Sociology

Presentation Type: Oral Presentation

Session: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA