Relationship stigma from loved ones is linked to mental health issues. This, from a Pace University study that analyzed 467 adults in same-sex and/or interracial relationships.
The team found that relationship stigma from friends was linked to greater depression symptoms and, in turn, poor overall health.
Also, relationship stigma from family was linked to greater depression and anxiety symptoms for heterosexual interracial couples.
This study demonstrates the harmful effects of stigma from those closest to us. Researchers plan to explore how couples can protect themselves from these adverse consequences.
Source:
Rosenthal, L., Starks, T.J. (2015, December). Relationship stigma and relationship outcomes in interracial and same-sex relationships: Examination of sources and buffers. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.
