Abstract
The present qualitative study aimed to better understand common themes in the experiences of intercultural/multilingual couples through a phenomenological approach. Saturation was reached after interviewing eight couples (16 participants in total). Eight common themes related to cultural differences and four related to language differences were found to influence couples’ relationships and communication in this qualitative study. Affection expression, gender roles, religious preferences, importance of food, residency decisions, child-rearing practices, extended family, and handling of finances were all emerged themes of cultural negotiations. In terms of language, communicating with extended family, expressing self and communicating in second language, learning a different language, and lost in translation emerged as themes. Finally, implications for family and couples’ counselors are reviewed.
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