Dynamics of Language Use in Japanese-Thai Intermarried Families
A Case Study of Thai and Japanese Couples
8th Biennial International Conference of the Japanese Studies Association of Southeast Asia
- Date: December 20-22, 2023
- Venue: Chiang Mai
- http://jsaasean.pol.cmu.ac.th/
WATANABE, Yukinori
Sagami Women’s University
Abstract
This study explores language choices and dynamics within Japanese-Thai intermarried families living in Thailand. Five participants, consisting of three couples and two Thai spouses of Japanese nationals, were selected through snowball sampling. Qualitative data were collected via in-depth semi-structured interviews.
Through analysis of the participants' narratives, key themes and their interrelationships are identified. The findings illustrate the significance of Thai, Japanese, and English languages in family dynamics and educational beliefs. Thai is considered essential for integrating into Thai society, while Japanese holds dual importance as both an ethnic symbol and a future investment. English education is highly valued for its global opportunities.
The study also examines the challenges faced by Japanese parents in maintaining Japanese language use within the family, particularly due to their career optimization in Thai society, which limits the possibility of further migration, including back to Japan. This has implications for the family's language use, as they prioritize language education that aligns with their current living situation in Thailand.
The research provides insights into language dynamics and educational beliefs among Japanese-Thai intermarried families in Thailand, offering perspectives that can be applied to similar multicultural family settings.
