Intermarriages of Filipino immigrant women in Prince George

This research project is a qualitative case study of 10 intermarried Filipino immigrant women. The women were asked specific questions about the Filipino cultural practices/patterns that were brought into the marriage, how they resolve the differences, the qualities of a Filipino woman that help resolve differences, and the attitudes they have on intermarriage, through a face-to-face interview. A demographic information sheet was also used to gather information about themselves and their husbands, and a rating scale about the presumed advantages and disadvantages was administered to validate the information obtained in the interview. Results showed Filipino cultural practices and differences are not a barrier to a stable relationship. The women participants admitted that they probably exerted more effort than those who have intramarriages. They have learned to compromise for the betterment of the relationship because they see marriage as a lifetime partnership. The women mentioned the virtues of ' pakikisama/pakikibagay', ' matiisin' as qualities that help resolve conflicts/differences. They also claimed they are hardworking, caring, patient, and flexible. The rating scale validated the positive attitude of the women towards intermarriage. They expressed hesitance to come out and seek help from mental health professionals or counsellors, but would prefer bicultural/bilingual mental health professionals or counsellors who would truly understand where they are coming from. This project concludes that cultural differences should not be seen as a threat to a stable relationship but as ingredients that contribute to enhance the flavor of the marriage, making it exciting, enviable and enriching.--Page ii.