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How diverse are the samples used to study intimate relationships? A systematic review
Hannah C Williamson1, Jerica X Bornstein1, Veronica Cantu1
1University of Texas at Austin.
Journal of Social and Personal Relationships
|June 3, 2022
Summary
Relationship science studies predominantly feature White, middle-class, heterosexual individuals. Greater inclusion of diverse populations is crucial for advancing relationship science research.
Area of Science:
- Social and behavioral sciences
- Relationship science
Background:
- Social and behavioral sciences often lack diverse research samples.
- Meta-science studies examine diversity and inclusion in scientific literature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a systematic review of diversity and inclusion in relationship science.
- To examine the characteristics of participants in relationship science studies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 559 relationship-focused articles (771 studies) from 2014-2018.
- Coded studies for research methods and sample characteristics (age, education, income, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation).
Main Results:
- The typical participant is a 30-year-old, White, American, middle-class, college-educated individual in a different-sex, same-race relationship.
- Only 10% of studies focused on underrepresented groups (non-White, low-income, sexual/gender minorities).
Conclusions:
- Relationship science samples lack diversity, predominantly featuring White, heterosexual, middle-class individuals.
- Increased inclusion of underrepresented groups is necessary for the validity and credibility of relationship science.
- Recommendations are provided to enhance diversity in future research.
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