Navigating Cultural Differences: A Qualitative Descriptive Study of Filipinos in Marriages with Foreign Partners

Abstract

Intercultural marriages have become increasingly common due to globalization, migration, and international mobility, bringing together individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, languages, traditions, and values. While these unions provide opportunities for cultural enrichment and personal growth, they also require continuous adaptation and negotiation of cultural identities. This study aimed to describe the experiences of Filipinos in marriages with foreign partners through the lens of Berry's Acculturation Theory. A qualitative descriptive research design was employed involving eight Filipino participants married to foreign partners and residing abroad. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted via Google Meet and Facebook Messenger and were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that participants experienced the four acculturation processes identified in Berry's theory. Integration was reflected through communication, mutual respect, and support from Filipino communities that facilitated cultural adjustment. Assimilation emerged as participants gradually adopted aspects of their spouses' cultural practices, lifestyles, and values while developing greater independence and resilience. Separation was evident in participants' continued preservation of Filipino values, traditions, food practices, language, and religious beliefs despite living in different cultural environments. Marginalization was experienced through feelings of alienation, language barriers, and challenges in communication and social interaction. Despite these difficulties, participants emphasized that effective communication, mutual understanding, emotional support, and cultural adaptability were essential in maintaining harmonious intercultural relationships. The study concludes that intercultural marriage is a continuous process of balancing cultural adaptation with the preservation of one's cultural identity. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of intercultural marital experiences and may serve as a basis for culturally responsive programs, counseling interventions, and future research on intercultural relationships in diverse cultural settings.