Chinese Families in Transition: Cultural Conflicts and Adjustment Problems

Abstract

Challenged to cope with two different cultures, Chinese American immigrant families face many stressors and conflicts. Such difficulties faced by these individuals usually stem from language, religious, and value differences. Furthermore, family members are faced with role and status changes due to differing rates and levels of acculturation. As a result, there is a great need for mental health services. However, due to cultural barriers, mental health services are not accessible nor acceptable to many Chinese Americans. Effective intervention strategies which integrate the Chinese cultural values and norms with psychotherapy are recommended.