A Case Study of the “Hidden” Group: Facilitating the Acculturation to U.S. Campus Life for International Female Spouses

Background and purpose: Some research has documented international students’ acculturation issues; however, there is limited research on their significant others, specifically the accompanying female spouses. In many cases, the female spouses who move to the U.S. from their home country lost their employment and personal networks that were salient to their own identity. During the acculturation process, these spouses have fewer resources and have to depend on themselves to adjust their U.S. campus life. Actually, they are often a hidden population in the university. Surprisingly, one women’s group in a northeastern university has continuously provided cross-culturally varied programs for female spouses of international students for 27 years. However, the group is a ‘hidden’ part of the university community for it is not a formal organization sponsored by the university. The group has been sustained only by international female spousal volunteers. This paper explores the acculturation process for these female spouses, their involvement in the women’s group and how the group addresses their challenges.

Methods: Ten in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with current members of the group, including the founder, senior member (attending the group over 10 years) and new comers (less than 3 years). The participants ranged in age from 28 to 69 and majority of participants have at least one child. Their home countries are located either in Europe or Asia, such as Scotland, Hungary, Germany, Vietnam, China, Korea, Japan and Iraq. The sample is predominately well-educated, married, and unemployed. The researcher recruited participants in person and the qualitative data were coded thematically. To enhance credibility, the researcher recorded field notes and checked the findings with the participants.

Findings: Data analysis reveals that in the beginning female spouses faced major challenges regarding their role and identity and coming to terms with social isolation. The barriers of language, space and lack of social networks made them feel depressed and isolated. Twenty-seven years ago, the founders began English classes for female spouses of international faculty and graduate students. Gradually, the group meets weekly with multiple programs such as a cooking club and presentations about their home country. The average attendance is about 10-12 members. Significantly, the group provides a social network to establish international friendships and a sense of community in the campus. For most members, the group acts as a stepping-stone to integrate themselves to the U.S. society. To support the women’s group, more resources are needed for recruitment and development.

Conclusions and Implications: Findings highlight the importance of the women’s group to facilitate the acculturation process of international female spouses and promote their standing on campus. By participating in the group, the female spouses report that they develop a more positive psychological outlook, enhance their social well-being, and promote their achievement. The benefits to the campus are two-fold: the group contributes to the welfare of their international husbands by helping them to adjust and allowing them to achieve their academic goals. Additionally, the group promotes the campus to create a supportive environment to international students and their families.