Cross-cultural relations.

Intercultural relationships are not new, but they are far more frequent now that the world seems smaller. We are more connected with others from further parts of the world than in prior times. Through social media, meeting someone from the other side of the globe is much more common now. Romantic as it sounds, love knows nothing about boundaries. Finding a bartender from a diverse cultural background and falling in love is increasingly common.

Intercultural relationships offer the possibility to enrich yourself with the other person’s culture. They allow you to build a deep connection based on love and mutual respect. This respect is not only for the person but also for their culture. It involves celebrating and embracing diversity.

But…Are we as a society ready for these changes? In my experience, not everyone is. Intercultural relationships often face scrutiny from society. These unique challenges need an open mind and effective communication when deciding to enter one.

Specific challenges cross cultures couples face

1 Different traditions

Each one in a couple comes to this union with their own tapestry of traditions. Openness to each other’s unique practice creates a deeper sense of fusion. In every culture, there are certain roles for males and women. Cultural expectations can vary intensely in daily life, from decision-making to household responsibilities, leading to misunderstandings.

It flows better when the couple can rely on and get support from their own family’s system. This does not always happen. The “difference,” the cultural diversity, is not continuously accepted nicely and, these biases put a strain on the couple’s relationship.

2-Communication.

Communication starts with the famous “Hello” to the body distance when you greet someone. Communication involves body language. It includes expectations on how the other one is supposed to behave in certain locations. These expectations cover various circumstances or just in front of certain people. So, communication is much more than spoken language. Each culture has its own set of norms. Communication is a big challenge in intercultural relations.

3 -Intimacy

Intimacy and sexual behavior are also different in every culture. There are behaviors and roles in certain cultures that are only expected from certain genders. Intimacy is also a way to communicate. It is also a place for misunderstandings or misconceptions, mainly when you take things for granted. If not spoken clearly it can generate important levels of frustration.

The secret of all healthy relations relies on the ability to communicate. You think speaking the same language is enough, but it is not. Language is much more than words; language organizes the way you think and so, the way you respond.

4 -Homesickness.

Cross-cultural relationships, sometimes involve relocating to the country of one of the parties’ homelands. The person who relocates must adjust more. They need to put significant effort into building a new network.

Can couples in Bridge the Gap? I am sure inter-cultural couples can and, once they gap the bridge, the relationship enriches itself with the cultural differences. It requires patience in the process of the construction. Time to adjust. Respect and tolerance. These tools are essential to navigate the challenge. Embracing cultural differences, and working toward integration, can build a stronger more resilient relationship.

Here are a few tips

1. Embrace open-mindedness and learning.
2. Do not take anything for granted.
3. Offer practical assistance in integrating the other person into the new culture.
4. Promote open dialogues.
5. Celebrate diversity.
6. Approach the differences with curiosity and lack of judgment.

Seek professional help. In certain situations, especially when the couples come from vastly diverse cultures, guidance can help. Couple psychologists with experience in intercultural relationships can offer. Insight, and tools, emphasizing that searching for professional help is a sign of commitment to their relationship.