Understanding the nature and relationship maintenance behaviors of Kazakh-Turkish married individuals

The aim of this study was to understand the nature of Kazakh-Turkish marriages and the relationship maintenance behaviors of Kazakh-Turkish married partners. The research design of this study was qualitative, and a phenomenological approach was conducted specifically. The sample consisted of 17 participants (9 Kazakh women and 8 Turkish men), of which were seven couples. All the participants were currently involved in Kazakh-Turkish marriage over nine months period. For collecting data, demographic information form and semi-structured interview forms were used. The results of this study revealed 12 themes, six sub-themes and 89 codes emerged. The themes were named as cultural similarities, cultural differences, advantages of an international marriage, facilitators of an international marriage, disadvantages of an international marriage, experiences of discrimination and racism, sacrifices made due to international marriage, experiences of family-of-origin about international marriage, conflicts experienced due to different cultures, advantages of raising children in an international family, disadvantages of raising children in an international family, and finally relationship maintenance behaviors. The results of the study enlightened the unique characteristics and specialties of Kazakh-Turkish marriages and particular self-reported maintenance behaviors which were discussed in the light of the literature specific to international marriages. Finally, recommendations were provided for future research, mental health practitioners, policymakers and Kazakh-Turkish couples.