Withdrawal from cultural roots

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 62 views

Intercultural Communication in the Assimilation Process at a Mixed Marriage of the Toba and Chinese Batak Tribes in Medan City

Introduction

The phenomenon of mixed marriages between the Toba Batak and Chinese tribes in Medan City is an interesting topic that involves intercultural communication. This study aims to explore the dynamics of communication that exist, the challenges faced, and the adaptation efforts made by this mixed couple. By using a case study approach and qualitative data analysis, this research reveals the complexities of intercultural communication in the assimilation process.

Background

Mixed marriages between different cultural groups have become increasingly common in modern society. However, the process of assimilation can be challenging, especially when two cultures with different values, beliefs, and practices come together. The Toba Batak and Chinese tribes in Medan City are two distinct cultural groups with their own unique traditions, customs, and languages. The Toba Batak tribe is an indigenous group that has a rich cultural heritage, while the Chinese tribe has a long history of cultural exchange and adaptation.

Methodology

This study used a case study approach to explore the dynamics of intercultural communication in mixed marriages between the Toba Batak and Chinese tribes. Five marriage couples were chosen as subjects of analysis, and the data collection process used descriptive methods and inductive approaches. Triangulation techniques were employed to ensure the validity of the information obtained. In addition to the couple, family members, religious leaders, and traditional leaders from each tribe were also involved in the study to strengthen the results.

Results

The results of this study showed that intercultural communication among mixed marriage couples can run well and effectively. However, several challenges arose, including:

Withdrawal from cultural roots: Some informants reported feeling pressure to withdraw from their cultural roots and adopt the dominant culture.
Anxiety about the future of the tribal community: The informants expressed concerns about the future of their tribal community and the potential loss of their cultural identity.
Excessive ethnocentrism: The informants reported experiencing excessive ethnocentrism from their partner's family and community, which created tension in the relationship.
Culture shock: The informants experienced culture shock as they adapted to their partner's culture and customs.

Despite these challenges, all informants showed efforts to respect and appreciate the cultural differences that exist in their marriage. They attempted to fuse with the culture of their partner, although not infrequently there was a change in world view, including religion, values, and behavior in couples who came from minority backgrounds. Some of them preferred to follow the dominant couple's beliefs, which indicates the dominance of culture in this relationship.

Discussion

The ongoing assimilation process indicates that the nature and original identity of the minority group began to be eroded by the strong influence of the dominant group. In many cases, language, cultural patterns, intensity of association, and child parenting adapted to a more dominant cultural environment. Therefore, the environment of residence and social interaction that occurs in it plays an important role in supporting this assimilation process.

This study provides a deeper understanding of how intercultural communication can affect the assimilation process in mixed marriages. This knowledge is expected to be a reference for the community and prospective mixed couples to be better prepared in facing challenges that might arise in marriages that involve two different cultures. Awareness of the importance of good communication and mutual respect for differences can be the main key to creating harmonious relationships in the context of mixed marriage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the complexities of intercultural communication in the assimilation process of mixed marriages between the Toba Batak and Chinese tribes in Medan City. The results show that intercultural communication can be effective, but it also poses several challenges. The informants' efforts to respect and appreciate cultural differences are crucial in creating harmonious relationships. This study provides a valuable reference for the community and prospective mixed couples to be better prepared in facing challenges that might arise in marriages that involve two different cultures.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Cultural education: Couples should receive cultural education to understand and appreciate each other's cultural differences.
Communication skills: Couples should develop effective communication skills to navigate the challenges of intercultural communication.
Mutual respect: Couples should cultivate mutual respect for each other's cultural differences and traditions.
Support system: Couples should establish a support system, including family and friends, to help them navigate the challenges of intercultural communication.

By following these recommendations, couples can create a harmonious and successful relationship that celebrates the diversity of their cultural backgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Intercultural Communication in Mixed Marriages

Q: What is intercultural communication?

A: Intercultural communication refers to the process of exchanging information, ideas, and messages between individuals from different cultural backgrounds. In the context of mixed marriages, intercultural communication involves the exchange of information, ideas, and messages between partners from different cultural backgrounds.

Q: What are the challenges of intercultural communication in mixed marriages?

A: The challenges of intercultural communication in mixed marriages include:

Language barriers: Differences in language can create communication barriers and make it difficult for partners to understand each other.
Cultural differences: Differences in cultural values, customs, and traditions can create tension and conflict in the relationship.
Ethnocentrism: The tendency to view one's own culture as superior to others can create tension and conflict in the relationship.
Power dynamics: Differences in power and status can create tension and conflict in the relationship.

Q: How can couples overcome the challenges of intercultural communication in mixed marriages?

A: Couples can overcome the challenges of intercultural communication in mixed marriages by:

Learning about each other's culture: Couples should take the time to learn about each other's cultural values, customs, and traditions.
Developing effective communication skills: Couples should develop effective communication skills to navigate the challenges of intercultural communication.
Establishing a support system: Couples should establish a support system, including family and friends, to help them navigate the challenges of intercultural communication.
Practicing mutual respect: Couples should cultivate mutual respect for each other's cultural differences and traditions.

Q: What are some tips for successful intercultural communication in mixed marriages?

A: Some tips for successful intercultural communication in mixed marriages include:

Be open-minded: Be open-minded and willing to learn about each other's cultural differences.
Use non-verbal communication: Use non-verbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions, to convey emotions and intentions.
Avoid stereotypes: Avoid making assumptions or stereotypes about each other's culture.
Practice active listening: Practice active listening to understand each other's perspectives and needs.

Q: How can couples maintain their cultural identity in a mixed marriage?

A: Couples can maintain their cultural identity in a mixed marriage by:

Preserving cultural traditions: Couples should preserve their cultural traditions and customs.
Passing on cultural values: Couples should pass on their cultural values and traditions to their children.
Maintaining cultural connections: Couples should maintain cultural connections with their families and communities.
Celebrating cultural differences: Couples should celebrate their cultural differences and traditions.

Q: What are some resources for couples who are navigating intercultural communication in mixed marriages?

A: Some resources for couples who are navigating intercultural communication in mixed marriages include:

Cultural education programs: Cultural education programs can provide couples with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate intercultural communication.
Counseling services: Counseling services can provide couples with the support and guidance they need to navigate intercultural communication.
Support groups: Support groups can provide couples with a sense of community and connection with others who are navigating similar challenges.
Online resources: Online resources, such as books and articles, can provide couples with information and guidance on intercultural communication.

Q: How can couples build a strong and healthy relationship in a mixed marriage?

A: Couples can build a strong and healthy relationship in a mixed marriage by:

Communicating effectively: Couples should communicate effectively and openly with each other.
Respecting each other's cultural differences: Couples should respect each other's cultural differences and traditions.
Maintaining a sense of humor: Couples should maintain a sense of humor and not take themselves too seriously.
Practicing forgiveness: Couples should practice forgiveness and not hold grudges against each other.

By following these tips and resources, couples can build a strong and healthy relationship in a mixed marriage and navigate the challenges of intercultural communication.