Related Experiment Videos
In search of Asian war brides
R Saenz1, S S Hwang, B E Aguirre
1Texas A&M University, Department of Rural Sociology, College Station 77843-2125.
Demography
|August 1, 1994
Summary
This study estimates the number of Asian war brides using U.S. census data, finding they align with traditional, lower socioeconomic profiles. This research addresses a gap in understanding marriages between U.S. servicemen and Asian women.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Demography
- Asian Studies
Background:
- Marriages between U.S. servicemen and Asian women, termed war brides, have occurred throughout the 20th century due to prolonged U.S. military presence in Asia.
- Existing literature lacks robust empirical data on the demographics and socioeconomic status of Asian war brides.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply a methodology for identifying and estimating the population of Asian war brides.
- To compare the characteristics of Asian war brides with other Asian wives to assess common perceptions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the national 1980 Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) to identify war brides.
- Developed a specific methodology to statistically identify war brides within the dataset.
- Conducted comparative analysis between Asian war brides and other Asian wives.
Main Results:
- Estimated the number of war brides from six major Asian groups.
- Comparative analysis indicated that Asian war brides tend to align with traditional perceptions.
- Findings suggest Asian war brides are often associated with lower socioeconomic status.
Conclusions:
- The study provides an empirical basis for understanding the Asian war bride population.
- Results support traditional socioeconomic stereotypes often linked to Asian war brides.
- Highlights the need for further research into this demographic group.