United States - Ethnic & Race Relations, Family - Sociocultural Aspects, Interfaith & Intercultural Marriage

Looking beyond the Mask

Name: Looking beyond the Mask
Author: Nancy Brown Diggs
ISBN: 9780791450703

by Nancy Brown Diggs

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Overview

Looking Beyond the Mask focuses on the personal stories of the growing number of American women who - despite vast cultural differences, and sometimes because of them - are married to Japanese men. Although the problems encountered in such marriages are similar to those found in any union, there are cultural implications that can exacerbate almost any of them. Potential areas of conflict are examined, such as in-laws, customs and manners, values, living conditions, religion, communication, sex and gender, and raising children. The book deals with meeting such challenges and attempting to look beyond the cultural masks to see the real people behind them. The women in question stress the importance of commitment, a flexible attitude, a strong sense of identity, a support network, a sense of perspective, and a sense of humor. They also reveal the benefits of these marriages, including a greater appreciation for Japanese ways and the opportunity to continually grow and learn. Based on extensive research, the book provides a new look at Japan from the unique perspective of those American women most intimately involved with its culture.

Synopsis

Diggs (an author specializing on Japanese and American intercultural experiences) discusses the personal stories of American women who, despite or because of vast cultural differences, marry Japanese men. She considers the chief areas of conflict, and the impact of the cultural gap. She also addresses efforts to overcome these difficulties. Commitment, flexibility, identity, support, and humor are emphasized.

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