The Process of Acculturation in Immigrant-Married Women in South Korea

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Over the past decade, the number of international marriages in Korea has grown at a rapid rate. Currently there is a lack of knowledge and studies about immigrant marriages, specifically on how immigrant married women cope and adjust to life in Korea. The purpose of this research is to analyze the acculturation of five immigrant married women through the grounded theory approach. During the course of this research, the searchers were able to study and observe the major intellectual and emotional problems experienced by foreign spouses when adapting to the Korean culture; (1) how the environment influences adaptation to the Korean culture (2) how the spouses overcome problems and (3) what the processes of settlement are by foreign spouses. The research was conducted through a series of interviews and observations of five women participating in Korean language courses and cultural adjustment programs. These women went through three rounds of interviews. The data showed that language barriers, cultural differences, and identity crises are key factors that affect the women’s adjustment. The relationship with and support from the husband and in-laws influenced the women’s motivation to have a smooth and successful cultural adjustment. They experienced an emotional complication, isolation and confusion during the course of cultural adjustment. The core category in the adaptation process of the immigrant women was awareness of the difference and settlement as a community member. This research will provide insight into the experiences immigrant-married women endure while adjusting to their new lifestyles. The Korean government and cultural programs must recognize the growing number of interracial marriages and how this research can be used as a reference to learn how to help facilitate the acculturation process of immigrant married women.

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