Discuss the economic and social significance of interracial marriages and families - Research Paper Example

In the opinion of Root “while hate, fear, and anger are common responses to interracial marriage and have powerful short-term affects, love has proved a formidable opponent” (Root, 1). However, the degree to which interracial marriages are affected by distinctions of values, habits, raising children, friends, in-laws etc are found to be greater than any other type of marriage (Interracial Marriages). As Roots (43) believes subtle difference between caste and class is enough for causing higher hostility between interracial partners than others.

To illustrate, the couples of interracial marriages often share different ethical values which lead to disagreements and conflicts among them. The difference in eating habits and type of food consumed are found to be one of the major problems encountered by couples particularly in interracial marriages. In addition, they share different notions on the preparation methods and the way of consumption. Interracial couples encounter dissimilarities and unlike views in their outlook and gender roles.

The western and non-western societies have distinct outlook on the role of women in family and society. The extent of liberty and freedom enjoyed by women also influences the relationship of interracial couples. When individuals of different societies with dissimilar races bind in the relationship of marriage, they often fail to play their roles effectively. The expectation of higher dignity and consideration from other races often persuade individuals to get into interracial relationships. But this over expectation and other moral disagreements restrict the success of interracial marriages.

Thus gender role expectations significantly influence the decisions and actions of interracial couples (Interracial Marriages). The root cause for the problems out of interracial marriages is that it is not accepted and encouraged by the society. The society tends to classify people on their races and culture. As a result, interracial couples usually encounter problems including lack of friends and well-wishers in the society. They tend to maintain less interaction with society or remain isolated from the society.

The in-laws of interracial couples have different views on the lives of their children which also will directly influence the relationship of interracial couples. Most of the problems of interracial marriages start when it comes to the upbringing of children born to them. The method of child rearing differs from one race to the other. They often find trouble with choosing the best strategies for their children’s development. Furthermore, interracial marriages are found to have great impact on the lives of their multicultural children too.

For instance, the children of interracial couple normally face discrimination and inequality in society and sometimes even at home. They face challenges on their racial identity; and often fail to categorize them into a particular group. Moreover, there may be pressure from parental side to choose a particular identity while the child may wish to pursue the other one. In addition, there may also be a situation of agreement of child and parents for a particular racial identity but when the society may not accept it.

Children get mentally disturbed and annoyed with unfairness and inequity at the school level. Racism becomes one of the key issues in the school environments. Children of interra