Adaptation Process of Korean Fathers within Multicultural Families in Korea

This study aimed to develop a grounded theory regarding the associations between factors identified in the adaptation process of 11 fathers of multicultural families. Participants were recruited purposively and data were collected through in-depth interviews. Data analysis was performed alongside data collection, following Strauss and Corbin’s grounded theory method. The following 11 categories were derived from the data: (1) a reluctantly formed multicultural family, (2) finding happiness amid confusion, (3) cultural differences, (4) economic difficulties, (5) social prejudice and alienation, (6) restrictions on the use of local services, (7) facing multiple obstacles, (8) people who provided strength and support, (9) accepting differences and moving forward, (10) growth with family, and (11) being made to stay. The core category was identified as “struggling to protect the family with a double burden.” This theory described the adaptation process of being a father in a multicultural family and participants’ reactions to the circumstances around it. Based on this theory, health policies should be developed to support not only the expansion of medical facilities in island and rural areas but also the activation of self-help groups. Future research should include the development of web-based prenatal management and parental education in immigrants’ native languages.