Predictors of Child Well-Being within Multicultural Families in Korea

Abstract

Using a survey of 123 biracial children with a Korean and a foreign parent, this study examines the predictors of child well-being within multicultural families in South Korea. We take a multidimensional approach to child well-being, focusing on five dimensions: nutrition, education, family well-being, social relations, and technology access. The findings suggest (1) the significant effects of family demographics and socioeconomic background on child outcomes. Mothers’ age, education, and household income improve a child’s well-being. In addition, (2) we find significant interactions across well-being dimensions. For instance, participation in private tutoring is strongly associated with a child’s social relations and emotional well-being at home. Moreover, the findings indicate that (3) cultural aspects play a significant role in explaining child outcomes. In particular, children with a Vietnamese mother are much less likely to have access to Wi-Fi, while children with a parent from North America or Europe show higher Korean language skills. Policies targeting biracial children should aim to strengthen the socioeconomic situation of multicultural families and improve their access to afterschool education. Moreover, policy makers should be aware of the cultural differences across immigrant parents.