Social Interaction in Intercultural Marriages

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to describe the social interactions of married couples from different cultures, especially foreigners who are married to Balinese ethnic, and to find out how foreigners adapt to their married life as Balinese and follow the Hindu religion. The research is based on the theory of social interaction from Soerjono Soekanto. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach through the method of case study. This research will use semi-structured interviews with three couples of key informants and two informants. The research data obtained were sourced from interviews, non-participant observation, documentation study and literature study. The conclusion of this research is that the social interaction between foreigners who are married to ethnic Balinese are running relatively well. Although there are differences in language and culture, tolerance towards the culture of each partner is the main key in maintaining the integrity of their married life. Then, the key informants of foreign nationals are not religious Hindus, but they still respect and appreciate every existing custom and tradition by participating in the implementation of traditional ceremonies and traditions in Hinduism.