Introduction to South Asian Heritage and South Asian Parenting Styles

Abstract

This chapter sets the scene of Universals in parenting and discusses the unique characteristics that parents of South Asian heritage have. It highlights how in the process of migration from one country to another, families can experience a shift and change in social, cultural, and societal expectations and norms. Demands around accepting, rejecting, and adapting to the new social norms and expectations can be very stressful, time consuming, and in many cases, can impact the parental relationship along with the parent-child relationships. Therefore, the pressure on the parenting for immigrant families is exemplified with multiple influences interacting at the same time. The values and beliefs of Asian families are discussed. Interdependence, welfare of family, moral responsibility towards one's family and parents are some important guiding values of most South Asian families.