Complications of an intercultural relationship

While all relationships can be difficult at times to manage, perhaps it is the relationships that begin with a pairing from two different cultures that require the most attention, at least initially, to keep things running smoothly. Have you ever considered the many differences between people where you live and people in other parts of the world? In some cases the differences are minimal, but in others they are enormous.

This, of course, can result in extreme clashes between the two people. Some of the main differences or concerns relate to issues such as views on women and their role in society. While this may not seem like such a big deal at first, because the couple is in love after all, if the relationship thrives and lasts, the issue can have unexpected impacts later on. It can be as simple as the way one’s mother-in-law is treated, or the way one’s daughter is taught about certain subjects.

Other concerns include religion, sex, children, and child-related issues. For example, opinions about education, discipline, and even the diet they will eat or the language that will be spoken at home can be a major issue.

Other issues of concern relate to views on medical care, or rather, the acceptance of medical help, and things like what is acceptable in a particular culture when it comes to showing signs of distress or pain. Some cultures are more concerned than others with the actual time on the clock and with sticking to schedules regarding formal worship and church services, or even dating. In some cultures it is not always acceptable to make eye contact or shake hands.

This article is not intended to teach about various cultures, but simply to provoke thoughts about the growing number of intercultural relationships and the bridges that must be built to make those relationships work. Perhaps the partner of your dreams lives in another part of the world. If so, are you willing to do the work necessary to establish and maintain the relationship you’ve always wanted? Have you considered the unique commitments that may be required of your relationship?

While you can start your relationship online, there will obviously come a time when you either move forward with the meeting and cement the partnership, or make the decision that the relationship doesn’t have the potential to last. But if it is worth working for, where will you live and what cultural traditions will be practiced during the wedding, festivities and funerals? When it comes to children, what will happen if the relationship doesn’t work out? Will you be separated from your little ones by an ocean and thousands and thousands of kilometers?

Intercultural relationships can and do work, and in fact, many of them seem to be happier than others. Could it be because the couple tries harder to make the relationship work or is it the differences between the couple that make the relationship so wonderful? Perhaps it is true that opposites attract. I think this is a very interesting topic and I intend to explore it.