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Covert parental control: parent-adolescent interaction and adolescent development in a Chinese context
1Department of Social Work, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T, Hong Kong. chingmanlam@cuhk.edu.hk
Summary
Chinese immigrant parents use "covert parental control," guiding adolescents through subtle tactics. Adolescents reciprocate this control, driven by loyalty and the concept of "guan," shaping Chinese adolescent development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Sociology
- Cultural Studies
Background:
- Western theories of adolescent development lack applicability to Chinese cultural contexts.
- Limited empirical research exists on Chinese adolescent development and parent-child interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Chinese-Canadian immigrant parental attitudes and practices.
- To explore adolescent reactions to parental strategies.
- To elucidate parent-adolescent interaction patterns in the Chinese-Canadian cultural context.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study approach.
- Exploration of experiences and views from 19 adolescents and 10 parents.
- Focus on Chinese-Canadian immigrant families.
Main Results:
- A dominant theme of "covert parental control" emerged, co-constructed by parents and adolescents.
- "Covert control" involves parental guidance, teaching, coaching, and monitoring using "tact" and "skills."
- Adolescents reinforce parental control due to loyalty and the concept of "guan."
Conclusions:
- Chinese adolescent development is significantly shaped by covert parental control.
- Parental guidance and adolescent loyalty are key components of Chinese parenting practices.
- The concept of "guan" plays a crucial role in parent-adolescent dynamics within Chinese culture.
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