Tee dissertation

Between two cultures: Exploring the voices of first and second generation South Asian women

Karen Tee

Simon Fraser University dissertation, 1997

Women of South Asian origins were interviewed in an exploration of their values and beliefs regarding family and gender roles, and acculturation experiences. The participants were 25 first generation and 26 second generation women, representative of the South Asian diaspora in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.

The methodology of this research consists primarily of analysis of transcribed interview narratives. In addition to thematic content, five narrative voices emerged as the women described and reflected upon their values and experiences. Moving beyond the dichotomy of "traditional" versus "modern" with respect to gender roles and acculturation, this method allowed for the multiplicity of women's voices and for the complexity of their subjectivity.

Findings were primarily qualitative; however, some quantitative results were obtained. High inter-rater reliability was established between those interpreting the transcripts. Quantitative comparisons between the first and second generations suggested a statistically significant difference in the pattern of voices, and of thematic content associated with the voices (e.g., arranged marriage, spousal roles, dating, authority to parents, parenting practices).

Of the numerous themes that emerged in the women's narratives, themes important to both generations include family honour (izzat), daughter as something held in trust (amanat), education, interracial relationships, and the conflict between family and independence. The impact of racism and internalized racism on ethnic identity formation was particularly important for the second generation. Meta-themes that predominated a woman's story (e.g., severe intergenerational conflict) and themes of particular concern for each generation also emerged in the narrative texts. The social context within which South Asian women live in Canada and the clinical implications of these findings are considered.