Intercultural Parenting in Australia

Abstract

This study employed a qualitative and social constructionist approach to examine cultural differences in intercultural parenting and how parents negotiated cultural differences. Semistructured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 intercultural couples/parents. Thematic analysis was used to analyze data and understand the meanings of participants' experiences. The findings revealed that while intercultural couples experienced several similar aspects of parenting experienced by monocultural couples, their experiences were exacerbated because of the cultural differences. The most common descriptions of differences and uniqueness in parenting were identified as (a) discipline, (b) sleep patterns, (c) cultural taboos refood and traditional medical practices, (d) children's socialization process, (e) education, (f) language and communication, (g) role of children, and (h) the role of extended families. Five major conflict resolution strategies were identified: (a) communication, (b) compromise, (c) sphere of rule, (d) asymmetrical decision-making, and (e) individual traits. Practical implications for therapists and counsellors working with intercultural parents/couples are discussed.

Parenting Black children in White spaces: Skilled African migrants reflect on their parenting experiences in Australia

“…Participants reported many instances in which they creatively accommodated and blended multiple value systems within their own approach to parenting in Australia. Although 'intercultural parenting' often refers in the literature specifically to parenting in multicultural, multiracial or multifaith households (Bhugun, 2017), we deploy this term intentionally to highlight the many ways in which African parents chose and applied what they perceived as the 'best of both' values systems, thus capturing the spirit of contemporary definitions of 'interculturalism' (Mansouri, 2017). A systematic review of literature by Mugadza, Mujeyi, Stout, Wali and Renzaho (2019) showed that African migrant parenting styles can be generally characterized 'by very high parental expectations of children … imposing obedience and respect for elders with harsh punishment for deviation … and using corporal punishment as a method of discipline ' (p. 2928).…”

Immigrants’ Life Satisfaction in Intermarriages with Natives: A Family Life Course Perspective

“…Up to 2018, further samples were drawn to increase the number of immigrants, particularly after large immigration waves. Enlargement samples were added in 2013 and 2015 to cover the immigration of European Union (EU) citizens from Central and Eastern Europe after freedom of movement was implemented in the EU, and in 2016 and 2017 to cover the arrival of refugees from Syria and other Middle Eastern countries (Goebel et al 2019). Moreover, to ensure an appropriate sample size, refreshment samples of the residential population of Germany are collected.…”

“…This stage is likely to be more conflict-ridden (Singla and Holm 2012). For instance, more conflicts will appear if the partners' gender role attitudes or religious beliefs diverge (Rodríguez-García 2006;Bhugun 2017). If the relationship continues, a shared identity is developed in the form of joint opinions, which strengthens the bond between partners in the later relationship phases (Singla and Holm 2012).…”

“…Consequently, cultural differences can intensify dissimilarities in child-rearing styles and expectations about family life. The conflicts that emerge might involve disagreements not just about children's socialization processes, language, or food (Bhugun 2017) but also about the partners' responsibilities for child-rearing or household tasks (Rodríguez-García 2006; Bustamante et al 2011). Moreover, the potential lack of emotional and practical engagement of the family members who reject intermarriage might be particularly detrimental during child-rearing, as support from the extended family is a relevant resource in child-rearing.…”