Counselling Korean migrants in New Zealand.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24135/nzjc.v42i1.7Keywords:
Korean migrants, 1.5 generation, coping strategies and decision making, family therapy, cultureAbstract
This article focuses on Korean migrants who are living in multi-generational and multi-cultural households and their family dynamics. It aims to offer insights for counsellors working with those who have come to New Zealand relatively recently. Informed by qualitative research into the experiences of 1.5-generation Korean-New Zealanders, the article examines their coping strategies as children and their decision-making processes as parents. Some cultural aspects to consider in counselling practice are discussed: multiple cultures within the household, cultural reasons behind clients' decisions, counsellors' critical role with children and adolescents, recognising strengths as well as anxiety, distinctive gender roles in family dynamics, support for transnational families, improvement in communication skills, and considerations for the wellbeing of older migrants and their grandchildren. Recommendations for counsellors are offered based on the research and the author's experiences as a Korean counsellor.
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