Spousal support and negative interactions among African Americans in long‐term marriages

Abstract As interventionists and policymakers aim to strengthen marriages and families, research on the nuances of romantic relationships, particularly among historically disadvantaged populations, grows more important. In its simplest form, the dynamics of a marriage consist of a combination of emotional highs and lows. Spousal support is generally a relational boon, capable of contributing to stability and happiness. On the other hand, negative interactions (e.g., criticism, unmet demands) can damage relationships and lead to instability or divorce. Although research has studied various correlates of spousal support and negative interactions, relatively little knowledge exists on these constructs among African Americans in long‐term marriages. To understand the correlates of spousal support and negative interactions among African Americans in long‐term (≥20 years) marriages, this study used data ( n = 200) from The National Survey of American Life Adult Reinterview (NSAL‐RIW). Our emphasis on long‐term marriages contributed to a sample that consists largely of older adults. Data analyses revealed that African Americans in long‐term marriages report high levels of emotional and instrumental spousal support and relatively low levels of negative interactions with their spouses. Gender, education, family income, and length of marriage were significantly associated with emotional and instrumental spousal support. Spousal negative interactions were associated with gender, family income, and marriage duration. Grounding policies and interventions in research that considers what strong couples have done well is an important first step toward building more strong, healthy relationships in underserved communities.