国際結婚で苦労した話

Summary

This video explores the multifaceted experiences of international marriage, diving into the unique challenges and enriching benefits encountered by couples. It candidly addresses issues such as cultural differences, language barriers, societal expectations, and the complexities of adapting to a partner's cultural norms. The discussion also highlights the positive aspects, like the broadening of perspectives, the deepening of understanding across cultures, and the joy of raising bilingual children. Through interviews and personal anecdotes, the video offers a balanced view, acknowledging the struggles while celebrating the diversity and richness that international unions bring to family life.

Takeaways

• 😟 Difficulty getting their non-Japanese name pronounced correctly is a common struggle.
• 😣 Visual expectations for mixed-race children can be insensitive and frustrating.
• 😫 Fights can escalate quickly when unable to communicate feelings in non-native language.
• 😡 Bureaucratic paperwork can be extremely confusing and difficult when systems aren't set up for non-Japanese names.
• 🤔 Discovering partner isn't as intellectual as assumed once they understand their language can be disappointing.
• 😊 Having a bilingual child can help translate during arguments.
• 🙁 Work visa issues can prevent spouse from working in partner's home country.
• 🤨 Different cultural expectations around home ownership and life milestones can cause conflict.
• 😃 Conversing in two different languages provides endless topics of discussion.
• 💕 Overcoming challenges together can help strengthen relationship.

Q & A

What are some common language barriers faced in international marriages?

Not being able to express emotions clearly during arguments due to language gaps, misunderstanding jokes/humor, and inability to read complex paperwork.

How can having children help overcome communication barriers?

Children who grow up bilingual can act as translators and explain what each parent is trying to say to bridge the gap.

What are some cultural differences couples may face regarding lifestyle expectations?

Ideas around home ownership, financial priorities, and age for achieving certain life milestones can differ greatly across cultures.

Why do personal questions like "Where did you two meet?" cause discomfort?

There is often an assumption of meeting at a bar or suspicion around the relationship origin, especially in Japan.

How can visiting in-laws be easier for international couples?

Parents of the foreign spouse treat it more like a vacation and have positive travel vibes vs judging a new daughter/son-in-law.

What are difficulties faced in cuisine and food preferences?

Tastes, cooking methods, and even what constitutes breakfast/dinner can vary enormously, causing frequent arguments.

What happens when one spouse moves abroad with the other?

Major struggles if the foreign language is not learned well, as they may be unemployable or isolated without the ability to communicate.

Why can realizing your spouse isn't as intelligent be disheartening?

Initially the foreign language ability can present as extraordinarily smart, but with full fluency the actual intelligence/education levels are understood.

How can international couples keep conversations interesting?

Sharing cultural differences, unique experiences from their countries, and discussing the various adaptations needed provide endless topics.

What are some paperwork and bureaucratic challenges?

Names may be too long for government forms, unfamiliar categories, and legal procedures unknown for major life events.