Cultural Dissonance Among Generations: A Solution-Focused Approach with East Asian Elders and Their Families

Cultural Dissonance Among Generations: A Solution-Focused Approach with East Asian Elders and Their Families

From the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, Vol. 30(4), Ohio State University, 2004

By Mo Yee Lee and LeeAnn Mjelde-Mossey

Abstract:

In traditional East Asian cultures, high value is assigned to family harmony and filial piety coupled with the expectation that elders will be honored and obeyed. A lifetime of such expectations shapes how elders perceive their role and status in the family. Problems can arise when younger, less traditional, generations do not share these expectations. This article describes a solution-focused approach that facilitates the family in creating a beneficial harmony in situations of cultural dissonance. Family members are empowered to draw on personal strengths in which multiple worldviews and values of individual members are recognized, incorporated, and negotiated.

Keywords:

multicultural, intercultural, diversity, cross-cultural, demographics, culture, ethnic profiles, settlement, family therapy

Cultural Dissonance Among Generations_A Solution-Focused Approach with East Asian Elders and Their Families