Degree Name
Master of Arts
Graduate Program
Speech Communication
Advisor
Ivey, Christina
Abstract
This research report delves into the complexities of intercultural marriage challenges deeply rooted in traditions, cultural beliefs, and stereotypes, shaping societal and familial attitudes and perceptions towards such unions. This study employs autoethnography (dialogues and composite characters) to explore resistance and shifts in attitudes towards intercultural marriages within society, family and friends. The research incorporates personal narratives to highlight how cultural essentialism, incompatibility, generational differences, and language barriers shape conversations around intercultural marriages. Using Fishers Walter’s (1984) Narrative Paradigm emphasizes how conversations and stories influence and shape people’s perceptions. In addition, Social Identity Theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1986) provides a framework for understanding how individuals in a societal group view others and how this can influence people's perceptions towards the intercultural union.
Overall, this study challenges cultural stereotypes and argues that culture is not static but evolves as people get direct exposure, engage in open dialogues, and change societal norms. It calls for a rethink of intercultural marriage as a site for growth and bridging intercultural gaps rather than a space of conflict.