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The Breakup of Binational Couples: Analyzing the Importance of Cultural Dissimilarity in the Couple Well-Being

Author

Listed:
  • Laia Folguera

    (University of Barcelona)

  • Jordi Roca

    (Universitat Rovira i Virgili)

  • Flavia Verónica Anzil

    (Universitat Rovira i Virgili)

  • Jordi Caïs

    (University of Barcelona)

Abstract

This paper explores the characteristics, causes and consequences of the breakup process of binational couples. Previous research found significant differences in the separation processes of binational couples and usually conclude that they are at greater risk of separation. But most studies attempting to explain relationship breakdown processes are based on statistical data and therefore do not reveal the complexity of the decision process. In our study, based on interviews over a 12-year period, we analyze the importance and centrality of “cultural dissimilarity” to explain the separation processes of mixed couples. The data obtained allow to establish the significance of certain elements that add nuance to the theory of homogamy/heterogamy by showing how the ‘cultural distance’ is not a central argument in most breakup experiences but that it helps to shape the discourse.

Suggested Citation

  • Laia Folguera & Jordi Roca & Flavia Verónica Anzil & Jordi Caïs, 2024. "The Breakup of Binational Couples: Analyzing the Importance of Cultural Dissimilarity in the Couple Well-Being," Applied Research in Quality of Life, Springer;International Society for Quality-of-Life Studies, vol. 19(5), pages 2649-2663, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:ariqol:v:19:y:2024:i:5:d:10.1007_s11482-024-10349-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s11482-024-10349-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Martin Dribe & Christer Lundh, 2012. "Intermarriage, Value Context and Union Dissolution: Sweden 1990–2005 [Mariage mixte, contexte des valeurs et rupture d’union: Suède 1990–2005]," European Journal of Population, Springer;European Association for Population Studies, vol. 28(2), pages 139-158, May.
    2. Rebecca Chiyoko King-O'Riain, 2016. "Enduring or Crossing Distance for Love? Negotiating Love and Distance in the Lives of Mixed Transnational Couples," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 21(1), pages 151-160, February.
    3. Zhiqiang Feng & Paul Boyle & Maarten Ham & Gillian M. Raab, 2012. "Are Mixed-Ethnic Unions More Likely to Dissolve Than Co-Ethnic Unions? New Evidence from Britain [Les unions mixtes sont-elles plus fragiles que les unions entre partenaires de même origine ethniqu," European Journal of Population, Springer;European Association for Population Studies, vol. 28(2), pages 159-176, May.
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