Cross-cultural Adaptation of Chinese Women in Thai-Chinese Marriages within the Context of Thai Society

Abstract

        The objectives of the study were to explore 1) the cross-cultural communication abilities and 2) the cross-cultural adaptation methods of Chinese women in Thai-Chinese marriages within the Thai social context. The research employs cross-cultural communication and adaptation concepts, alongside related research. It is a qualitative study, utilizing in-depth interviews with a cohort of 10 Chinese women married to Thai spouses. The methodology includes studying research, articles, and various documents.

        The findings reveal that several factors affecting the ability to communicate across cultures for Chinese women married to Thai spouses include the Thai language, culture, daily life, spouse or spouse’s family dynamics, lack of acceptance, and prejudice within Thai society. Additionally, factors such as knowledge, understanding, attitude, emotion, and time play significant roles. Chinese women married to Thai spouses demonstrate better cross-cultural communication skills compared to those who are not married to Thai spouses. They engage in more profound, comprehensive, and open cross-cultural communication. Regarding methods for cross-cultural adaptation, learning techniques are utilized to enhance understanding, including learning from one’s spouse, other individuals in society, and various media sources, both Chinese and mainstream Thai media. Chinese women seek communication and assistance from their spouses, offer advice, engage in social groups with Thai individuals, and form networks with other Chinese women married to Thai spouses. They also exhibit curiosity and interest in Thai culture. Advice or counseling is provided for Chinese women not married to Thai spouses to encourage them to gain experience, understanding, and acceptance. The ability to communicate across cultures and adapt to cross-cultural marriages with Thai spouses facilitates understanding and cooperation between Chinese women and Thai society, ultimately influencing the happiness and satisfaction within marital relationships. Moreover, it enables Chinese women to recognize the value of and better understand Thai culture.