Mind the Gap: How Generational Differences Affect the Mental Health of Asian American Families

By Matthew Miller, PhD (Asst. Professor – University of Maryland, College Park)

What do the words “generation gap” mean to you?

For many people, “generation gap” conjures up memories of conflict with their parents over differences in music tastes, career choice, political affiliation, lifestyle choices, etc.

However, for many Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) families, typical generation gap conflicts are exacerbated by the acculturation gap – the phenomenon where children of immigrant parents adapt to a new culture faster and in a different way than their parents (Lee et al., 2000).

What are acculturation gap conflicts?

Acculturation gap conflicts occur when parents expect their children to maintain their traditional AAPI culture (e.g., filial piety) and lifestyle but the children are more inclined to adhere to the new culture and lifestyle (e.g., individualism and independence). Ultimately, these conflicts are associated with higher levels of stress and poorer mental health (Miller et al., 2011).

How can the stress of acculturation gap conflict be addressed?

• Seeking social support from friends with similar experiences might benefit those experiencing a high level of acculturation gap conflict. It may help to buffer against the stress created by the conflict (Lee et al., 2005).
• Helping AAPI families understand that acculturation gap conflict is part of adjusting to life in a new culture may help to normalize, validate, and alleviate the stress experienced by parents and children.

We want to hear from you! Tell us in the comments:

• How have acculturation and generation gap conflicts affected you/your friends and family?

• What solutions would you offer to bridge the acculturation gap?

You may also be interested in:

Great expectations: Exploring family dynamics and stress among Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders

References:

Lee, R. M., Choe, J., Kim, G., & Ngo, V. (2000). Construction of the Asian American Family Conflicts Scale. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 47, 211-222.

Lee, R. M., Su, J., & Yoshida, E. (2005). Coping with intergenerational family conflict among Asian American college students. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 52, 389-399.

Miller, M. J., Yang, M., Hui, K., Choi, N., & Lim, R. H. (2011). Acculturation, enculturation, and Asian American college students’ mental health and attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 58, 346-358.