Parenting advice for intercultural couples: a systemic perspective

Abstract

This article presents advice for intercultural parents, based on findings of a qualitative study that examined how intercultural parents negotiated their cultural differences. Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted with fourteen intercultural heterosexual couples/parents in South East Queensland. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data and understand the meanings of participants’ experiences. The findings revealed that not only aspects of cultural background, but also systemic and contextual factors impacted on the experiences of intercultural parents. Advice for intercultural parents is described from three systemic perspectives: the individual sphere, the couple/parent sphere and the child's sphere. Practical implications for therapists and counsellors working with intercultural parents are discussed. Practitioner points Find value in cultural differences and similarities in parenting style to form a balanced view Explore benefits and opportunities of intercultural parenting as source of strength Use culture as a valuable source for change Assume the role of mediator and interpreter when dealing with conflicts in cultural code Practice cultural sensitivity and reflexivity Conflict may be due to processes other than culture, such as emotional processes. Explore power dynamics in parenting