Effects of Family Functions in Multicultural Families on Quality of Life: The Mediating Effect of Parenting Attitudes

Purpose: This study aimed to enhance understanding of multicultural families in South Korea by examining the impact of family functions on their quality of life and exploring how parenting attitudes in multicultural families influence the relationship between family functions and quality of life. Research design, data and methodology: This study obtained a total of 124 valid surveys with the assistance of the Cheonan and Asan Multicultural Centers. Using SPSS 24.0 and AMOS 24.0, the study conducted frequency analysis, descriptive statistical analysis, reliability and validity, and correlation analysis. To test hypotheses, the study conducted simple (multiple) regression and three-step mediation regression analysis. Results: The results revealed that family functions in multicultural families have a significant impact on parenting attitudes, and parenting attitudes have a significant impact on the quality of life. Additionally, except for autonomy and rational parenting attitudes, parenting attitudes were found to have partial mediating effects between family functions and the quality of life. Conclusions: It was empirically demonstrated that parenting attitudes, along with family functions, are crucial factors for improving the quality of life. The study suggests various methods at the levels of multicultural families, local communities, and the national level to enhance the quality of life in multicultural families.