Journal of Psychosociological Research in Family and Culture

Objective: This study examines the dynamics of interfaith marriage in Bangladesh, many customs and rituals, different religious society views, and marriage reviews, offering a comparative analysis of past and present trends and exploring the sociocultural aspects surrounding these unions, with specific consideration given to the influence of the Marriage Act of 1872. The objectives of the study aim to investigate the historical evolution of interfaith marriages, analyze the sociocultural factors influencing their occurrence, and assess the impact of the Marriage Act of 1872 on regulating such unions.

Methods and Materials: The research methodology involves a comprehensive review of the literature, an examination of historical data conducted with a qualitative approach.

Findings: The findings suggest a noticeable increase in interfaith marriages, driven by urbanization, globalization, and changing religious perspectives. Despite legal provisions, societal and cultural barriers persist, presenting challenges for interfaith couples.

Conclusion: The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of promoting awareness, understanding, and acceptance of interfaith marriages in Bangladesh and proposing legal reforms and educational initiatives to foster a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Objective: The objective of this study is to explore the role of cultural adaptation in interfaith marriages, focusing on how couples navigate religious differences, integrate cultural practices, and manage identity negotiation.

Methods: This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews with 20 participants who have been in interfaith marriages for at least three years. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure diversity in cultural and religious backgrounds. Data were collected until theoretical saturation was achieved and were analyzed using NVivo software. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify key themes and subthemes related to communication strategies, religious practices, cultural integration, emotional support, and identity negotiation.

Results: The analysis revealed five main themes: communication strategies, religious practices, cultural integration, emotional support, and identity negotiation. Couples employed various communication strategies such as open dialogue, conflict resolution, and non-verbal communication to bridge cultural gaps. Joint religious practices and celebrations, as well as respectful handling of dietary restrictions, were crucial in fostering mutual respect. Cultural integration was facilitated through adopting traditions, adapting attire, and engaging in social networks. Emotional support from spouses, families, and communities played a significant role in maintaining marital stability. Identity negotiation involved balancing individual and joint identities, dealing with societal perceptions, and educating others about their interfaith marriage.

Conclusion: The study underscores the complex and nuanced strategies interfaith couples use to navigate cultural adaptation. Effective communication, mutual respect in religious practices, cultural integration, emotional support, and identity negotiation are critical for the success of interfaith marriages. The findings highlight the need for supportive legal frameworks and societal acceptance to facilitate the thriving of interfaith unions. This study contributes valuable insights into the broader processes of cultural adaptation and integration in a globalized world.

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions of discipline and punishment among families from diverse cultural backgrounds. By understanding these perceptions, the study aimed to provide insights into how cultural norms, individual experiences, and societal frameworks influence disciplinary practices within different familial contexts.

Methods: This qualitative research utilized semi-structured interviews to collect data from 23 participants of varied cultural backgrounds. The participants were recruited through community centers, cultural organizations, and social media platforms. Interviews were conducted using a guide developed from existing literature, focusing on definitions of discipline, acceptable and unacceptable practices, and cultural influences. Data were analyzed using NVivo software, employing thematic analysis to identify common themes and patterns across the interviews.

Results: The study identified three main themes: perceptions of discipline, experiences with punishment, and cultural contexts. Participants generally defined discipline as corrective action aimed at guiding behavior and fostering respect, responsibility, and self-discipline. Non-physical methods, such as time-outs and verbal warnings, were preferred, while physical punishment was widely rejected. Cultural traditions, religious beliefs, and community norms significantly influenced these practices. Experiences with punishment revealed generational shifts towards less physical punishment, with emotional impacts ranging from fear to acceptance. The influence of extended family, migration challenges, and legal frameworks were also highlighted, underscoring the complex interplay of cultural and societal factors in shaping disciplinary practices.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to discipline and punishment within families. Effective parenting programs and policies should integrate diverse cultural traditions while promoting non-physical disciplinary methods. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the cultural dimensions of disciplinary practices, offering valuable insights for parents, educators, and policymakers aiming to support the well-being and healthy development of children in multicultural contexts.

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the role of extended family in child-rearing practices across different cultures. The research aimed to understand how extended family members contribute to the upbringing of children and the impact of these practices on child development and family dynamics.

Methods: This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews to collect data from 25 participants of diverse cultural backgrounds. The participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure a variety of perspectives. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The interview data were analyzed using NVivo software, facilitating systematic coding and thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns related to the involvement of extended family in child-rearing.

Results: The analysis revealed four main themes: daily involvement, cultural beliefs and practices, comparative perspectives on nuclear versus extended family roles, and personal experiences. Extended family members were found to provide substantial support in daily childcare responsibilities, emotional support, discipline, practical assistance, and health and safety. Cultural beliefs significantly influenced child-rearing practices, with extended families playing a crucial role in transmitting traditions, values, and language. Participants highlighted both the benefits and challenges of extended family involvement, noting the importance of emotional support and the difficulties of managing conflicts and generational gaps. Personal experiences underscored the positive and negative aspects of extended family dynamics and the coping strategies employed to navigate these relationships.

Conclusion: The study underscores the vital role of extended family members in child-rearing practices across different cultures. Their involvement offers emotional, practical, and cultural support, enhancing children's development and family cohesion. However, challenges such as conflicts and generational gaps must be addressed. Future research should include larger and more diverse samples, employ mixed-methods approaches, and explore the perspectives of extended family members. Practitioners should recognize the value of extended family involvement and support families in managing these complex relationships.

Cultural festivals are a significant aspect of social life, providing communities with opportunities for celebration, identity expression, and social cohesion. While there has been extensive research on the economic and social impacts of festivals, there is a pressing need to delve deeper into how these events influence family cohesion and dynamics. This letter aims to highlight the importance of studying the impact of cultural festivals on family relationships, drawing on existing literature to advocate for more comprehensive research in this area. In conclusion, cultural festivals play a significant role in promoting family cohesion by offering shared experiences that reinforce social bonds and cultural identity. However, there is a need for more focused research on how these events impact family dynamics across different cultural contexts. By addressing this gap, we can better understand the potential of cultural festivals to strengthen family relationships and promote social cohesion. We urge researchers and practitioners in the field of psychosociology to prioritize studies on the impact of cultural festivals on family cohesion. Such research will not only contribute to the academic understanding of family dynamics but also inform the design and implementation of festivals to maximize their positive impacts on families.

Objective: This study aims to explore the dynamics of attachment and identity formation within bicultural families, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities they face. The research seeks to understand how parenting styles, bonding activities, emotional connections, and the role of extended family influence these processes. Additionally, the study examines the continuous cultural negotiation and the impact of social relationships and support systems on the overall well-being of children raised in bicultural environments.

Methods: A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews to gather in-depth data from 23 participants, including parents and children from 15 bicultural families. The participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure diverse cultural backgrounds. Data were analyzed using NVivo software, with themes and patterns identified through rigorous coding and thematic analysis. Theoretical saturation was reached after conducting interviews with the 15 families, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the study's objectives.

Results: The study identified four main themes: Attachment Dynamics, Identity Formation, Cultural Negotiation, and Family and Social Relationships. Attachment dynamics were influenced by varied parenting styles and the integration of cultural practices. Identity formation was shaped by cultural pride, school environment, and peer relationships. Cultural negotiation involved continuous adaptation of decision-making processes, traditions, and language practices. Family and social relationships, including peer interactions and community engagement, played a crucial role in supporting the social experiences of bicultural children.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the complex interplay of attachment and identity formation in bicultural families. Effective parenting, cultural negotiation, and strong social support systems are essential for fostering positive identity development and family cohesion.

Objective: The objective of this study is to explore the cultural influences on perceptions of parenthood and family life. It aims to understand how cultural norms, values, and practices shape parenting roles, responsibilities, and challenges among parents from diverse backgrounds.

Method: This qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews to gather data from 28 participants representing various cultural backgrounds. Participants were recruited through community centers, cultural organizations, and social media platforms. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software, following the principle of theoretical saturation to ensure comprehensive data collection. Thematic analysis was employed to identify and analyze patterns and themes related to cultural influences on parenthood.

Results: The analysis revealed three main themes: Cultural Traditions, Parenting Practices, and Challenges and Adaptations. Cultural traditions influenced family roles, rituals, religious beliefs, language, and cultural identity. Parenting practices varied widely, encompassing diverse parenting styles, discipline methods, education priorities, health and nutrition, work-life balance, and family support networks. Participants also faced significant challenges in integrating into new societies, managing intergenerational conflicts, economic pressures, accessing resources, and addressing mental health and legal issues.

Conclusion: Cultural influences play a crucial role in shaping perceptions and practices of parenthood and family life. This study highlights the need for culturally sensitive approaches in supporting parents and children from diverse backgrounds. The findings underscore the importance of inclusive policies and practices that address the unique needs of culturally diverse families, promoting equitable access to resources and support. Further research is recommended to explore the dynamic nature of cultural influences on parenting and to develop comprehensive strategies for supporting diverse family structures.