The In-law Intercultural Relations: A Phenomenological Study

Background: Family has a special role as the source of one's happiness. In Indonesia, with its various cultures, it is common to find a nuclear family joining the extended family in the same place of residence so that the relationship between a son or daughter-in-law with parents-in-law is intensely intertwined. Study aims: This research aimed to understand the experiences of a son or daughter-in-law in intercultural relations with parents-in-law. Method: The research was designed with a phenomenological approach. Participant inclusion criteria include a) male/female originating from outside Java; b) being married for 1 – 5 years; and c) having parents-in-law who come from the Javanese tribe. Based on these criteria, the study involved five participants (two women, and three men). Data collection using semi-structured interviews. Afterward, the analysis technique uses Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Result: The results found that there were three main themes, namely (1) perceptions of parents-in-law's remark, (2) adjustment to culture, and (3) meaning of experience. The partner certainly participates in the psychological dynamics that are unique to each participant. Conclusion: The research has implications for the urgency of readiness and willingness, both for the son or daughter-in-law and the parents-in-law, in building assertive communication within the framework of intercultural relations.