Racial microaggressions in interracial relationships

Racial microaggressions, which include racial invalidation, are emerging as an overlooked but significant form of partner maltreatment, especially within interracial relationships. This review synthesizes research and clinical insights to demonstrate how these subtle forms of racial harm-whether perpetrated by the partner or minimized by them-can erode psychological well-being, safety, and trust in intimate partnerships. We draw on theory positioning microaggressions as relational aggression and highlight mechanisms of harm, including gaslighting, identity invalidation, and cumulative racial stress. The article concludes with evidence-informed strategies for partners-particularly White partners-to provide racially attuned support and mitigate unintentional racial harm.