Effects of Gender and Ethnicity on Adolescent Experiences in Same-Race and Interracial Romantic Relationships

Author

Angela Marie Enno, Utah State University

Date of Award

5-2006

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Departmental Honors

Department

Psychology

Abstract

In recent years, the field of psychology has seen considerable growth in the body of literature on adolescent romantic relationships (e.g., Florsheim, 2003; Furman, Brown, & Feiring, 1999). As this trend continues, the need for a more thorough understanding of the processes that underlie normal relationship development becomes increasingly apparent; particularly in the case of adolescent members of ethnic minority groups, for whom literature on normal development is sparse. The present study sought to gain insight into some of the forces that shape adolescents' experiences of romantic relationships: namely, race/ethnicity and gender. We hypothesized that, like their adult counterparts, adolescent romantic relationships would be significantly impacted by ethnicity. We also hypothesized that significant gender differences would be found in adolescents' attitudes, expectations, and experiences in dating relationships.

Recommended Citation

Enno, Angela Marie, "Effects of Gender and Ethnicity on Adolescent Experiences in Same-Race and Interracial Romantic Relationships" (2006). Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects. 716.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/honors/716