Week 2 Kathlene Ngo A03

Week 2 Blog

Kathlene Ngo

ID# 912738839

ASA2 Section A03

Week Theme: Debunking Myths about Asian Americans and Higher Education & Introduction to Social Engineering Theory

       In the article "Beyond Tiger Mom Anxiety: Ethnic, Gender and Generational Differences in Asian American College Access and Choices," Poon and Byrd point out the stereotypes of "tiger moms" and children who are the results of such strict upbringing. While there are a lot of Asian-American parents who are considered "tiger parents," there are also many "tiger moms" from other races/cultures. African-American "tiger moms" exist; white "tiger moms" exist; and Native American "tiger moms" exist. As a society, we are primed into believing that successful Asian-American children are the products of strict "tiger parents."As a Vietnamese-American, I relate to this ideology very strongly. In the Asian culture, reputation and status are two things have the most significance.  Going to a high-ranking university and landing a high-paying job are two signs that a child is raised "well" and in a strict upbringing. Although it sounds harsh and mean, I understand how parental figures think this certain way. From fleeing a Communist country and surviving in a new land with no relatives, success and money are very important to first and second generation Asian-Americans. In order to make sure their children are successful, they adopt a strict parenting style that may or may not be beneficial. 

        In 2014, an article written by Kiersz, "Here Are the Countries With The Worst Suicide Rates," it is shown that suicidal rates are highest in Asian and Eastern European countries. While it may be inferred that their conservative and strict cultures can be the blame, such cultural thinking cannot be changed easily. "Tiger parenting" is also extended to Asian-Americans living in the United States. While it may be done out of good will, this is an issue that needs awareness. Many students of "tiger moms" often times exhibit signs of depression and suicide. Higher-education universities should have counseling and take into consideration of "tiger parenting" during college admissions. However, while the parents of second generation Asian-Americans do affect the college decisions of many, there are many other factors such as peers, personal dreams, and mentors that play a role in their decision. 

Question: How do people of color erase such stereotypes such as "tiger parenting" and develop awareness for the different implications of such stereotype? 

 

References

       Kiersz, A. (2014, April 21). Here Are The Countries With The Worst Suicide Rates. Retrieved from https://www.businessinsider.com/world-suicide-rate-map-2014-4

       Poon, O and A Byrd. "Beyond Tiger Mom Anxiety: Ethnic, Gender and Generational Differences in Asian American College Access and Choices". Journal of College Admission, 2013.