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Sources of stress in inter-cultural marriages

Belonging to different cultures can definitely pose a challenge for inter-cultural couples. These challenges can definitely be overcome. However, if couples face disapproval and social pressure from families and society, their relationships may become highly stressful as a result.

Several studies on stress in intercultural marriages indicate at least five particular sources of stress:

1. Major differences in cultural and world views
2. Macro-cultural reactions (negative responses from society and family) and micro-cultural differences (values, beliefs, and traditions within the couple)
3. Communication styles
4. Religious and ethnic beliefs
5. Having an unbalanced view of their intercultural marriage (i.e., they distort or deny the differences, rather than integrate the similarities and differences into an overall balanced perspective)

Further, stress experienced in inter-cultural marriages may also be related to childrearing, time orientation, gender role expectations, connections to extended family, and particularly, which family subsystem will take priority or be dominant.

Potential cultural differences that must be negotiated were highlighted in one study that focused on Asian Indian-White marriages. These couples found that their families of origin were outspoken about disapproval and concern about protecting future generations, transmitting cultural values and traditions, and connecting with other generations in the family. Marriage outside of the race or culture was seen as a disruption of a sense of community, cultural heritage, and identification.

Within the Asian Indian community, partner selection tends to be carefully orchestrated within social status and income, with education and employment as key variables for consideration. Staying within the same range on these factors assures power and status equity within the families. Because marriage is a communal affair for the Asian Indian community, Asian Indian-White couples are often concerned and aware of social image and potential censures that could limit their ability to integrate into the existing community.

Couples who overcome these challenges are more likely to focus on their similarities and perceive differences as strengths that broaden their view and enrich their relationship. They carefully discuss and negotiate the expectations and possible repercussions of conflicting cultures. Strengths in these relationships arise from spousal support, trust and belief in each other. Immersion in either’s culture can bring a unique sensitivity and awareness of differences, but also broaden their worldview.

In sum, inter-cultural marriages across ethnicities experience different levels of stress and resiliency. The complexities can potentially be overcome successfully with careful negotiation and communication.