Listening to and Sharing Concerns with One’s Spouse: Co-constructed Narra-tives and Sociocultural Discourses in Japanese Marital Communication

Abstract

The persistence of a status gap between men and women in Japan, on the other hand there is growing skepticism about gender inequality. This discrepancy between the reality and beliefs about gender roles and disparities sug-gests that Japan is undergoing a transitional phase in terms of the division of labor according to gender. Moreover, Japanese couples are less likely to listen to or confide in their spouses regarding their problems than those of couples from other East Asian countries. The present study examined Japanese marital communication, division of labor in the context of traditional gender roles, and the need for their support. The study involved sequential analysis of a single couple therapy session. Co-constructed narratives and sociocultural discourses were examined in the structured session, in which attachment needs were discussed between spouses, particularly those arising during crises. The results revealed that feelings of “Amae” and refraining from expressing one’s own needs ac-counted for the challenges in communication. It is important to engage in dialogue that focuses on the needs and efforts of the couple, as well as to create an environment conducive to the discussion of work-related issues, household chores, and childcare. Meeting the couple’s proximity needs and improving family management may promote equitable division of labor based on new gender roles.