ABSTRACT
This exploratory study examined race/ethnicity, income, and employment status (including underemployment specifically) as predictors of relational distress for members of a couple in a predominantly low-income, historically marginalized racial-ethnic (HMRE) background sample (N = 671 couples). Results of a dyadic multiple regression using structural equation modeling did not show an effect for underemployment on relational satisfaction, but effects for employment status and race differed significantly. Findings strengthen the demand for holistic and integrative approaches to multi-couple group career counseling and career development for disproportionately higher numbers of HMRE couples and families.
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Notes on contributors
Nickolas Spears
Nickolas Spears is a recent Ph.D. recipient in the Counselor Education & Supervision program at Virginia Commonwealth University. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor at Hampton University. He has a background in civic engagement as well as substance use and mental health counseling. Dr. Spears’ research interests investigate the relationship between couple and family stress, workforce development, and economic mobility in underrepresented and historically marginalized populations.
Naomi J. Wheeler
Naomi J. Wheeler, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the Department of Counseling and Special Education with the Virginia Commonwealth University.
Rachel A. Regal
Rachel A. Regal is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Counseling and Special Education with the Virginia Commonwealth University.
Andrew P. Daire
Andrew P. Daire, Ph.D. is Dean and Professor in the School of Education at Virginia Commonwealth University.