The Cultural Dimension in Toxic Relationships: Exploring Interpersonal Communication Conflicts Among Ethnic Couples in Makassar, Indonesia

Abstract

Amidst Indonesia's cultural diversity, communication conflicts in intercultural marriages are a common phenomenon, yet they receive little attention in academia, particularly among Bugis, Toraja, Betawi, and Makassar couples in the city of Makassar. This study aims to explore the types, causes, and effects of interpersonal communication conflicts in toxic relationships among couples with different cultural backgrounds. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study design, involving three culturally diverse couples selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and non-participant observation, then analysed using systematic thematic analysis techniques. The main findings reveal that conflicts are triggered by differences in communication styles (e.g., gentle vs. loud), differences in social norms in sharing family problems, and an imbalance of roles in the household. Repeated conflicts led to a decrease in self-disclosure, increased alienation, and social depenetration as described in Social Penetration Theory and the Johari Window. These findings expand the understanding of toxic relationship dynamics in the complex Indonesian cultural context, while highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive communication interventions and adaptive conflict resolution. The results of this study are expected to serve as a reference for counsellors, marriage practitioners, and policymakers in designing more effective support programmes for intercultural couplesThe results of this study are expected to serve as a reference for counsellors, marriage practitioners, and policymakers in designing more effective support programmes for intercultural couples.