Special Section Conclusion: Future Directions of Multiracial Families

We conclude this special issue on multiracial families with some advice for future research and practice as they relate to multiracial families. Based on the broader literature and the specific contributions of the special section, we offer six suggestions across the four themes identified in the introduction. First, we suggest the need to disaggregate “multiracial families” to better understand the dynamics occurring within these different family structures. Next, further examination of the dual realities and stressors associated with transition across various family stages will be informative. Third, additional empirical investigation into factors that promote positive multiracial couple relational experiences across family transitions, together will further illuminate dual realities and can inform resilience-promoting parenting and related interventions. Fourth, particularly if large datasets include information about family structure, ethnoracial background, and related factors, researchers can investigate internal and external factors that impact health outcomes among multiracial families. Finally, we call for increased research with multiracial families across stages or of individual and family development and urge for balance in the presentation of positive and negative aspects of multiracial family life. We present the suggestions for future directions across the four themes: (1) the demography of multiraciality is changing along with that of America, (2) the challenges parents in multiracial families face and the role they play in buffering adversity and promoting resilience; (3) health and well-being of multiracial families, and (4) the strengths of multiracial families across family life stages.