Top Reasons Why Caregiving is Expected in the AAPI Culture

In Asian American culture, caregiving is often considered an expected and valued role due to several factors:

1. Filial piety and respect for elders: Traditional Asian values place a strong emphasis on filial piety, which emphasizes the obligation and respect that children have towards their parents and elders. Taking care of parents and elders is seen as a way to honor and repay the love, sacrifices, and guidance received from them throughout life.
2. Interdependence and collective responsibility: Asian cultures often prioritize collective well-being and interdependence within the family unit. Caregiving is viewed as a shared responsibility among family members, with the expectation that family members will provide support and care for aging parents and elders.
3. Cultural norms and expectations: Cultural expectations around caregiving can influence the roles and responsibilities assigned within families. In Asian cultures, there may be cultural norms and expectations that designate certain family members, typically daughters or daughters-in-law, as primary caregivers.
4. Importance of preserving harmony and face-saving: Asian cultures place great value on maintaining harmony within the family and avoiding public embarrassment or loss of face. Caregiving within the family can help preserve this harmony by keeping matters of aging and illness private and within the family circle.

In comparison, typical American culture around caregiving may vary and is influenced by individualistic values, independence, and personal autonomy. While many Americans also prioritize caring for their aging parents, there may be a greater emphasis on individual choices, personal goals, and the involvement of professional caregivers or long-term care facilities.

In American culture, caregiving responsibilities are often negotiated among family members based on various factors such as geographical distance, work commitments, and the availability of professional caregiving services. There may be a greater emphasis on individual preferences and the need for a work-life balance.

However, it's important to note that these cultural perspectives are not absolute and can vary greatly within different Asian American communities and individual families. Cultural values and expectations around caregiving are evolving over time, influenced by factors such as generational differences, acculturation, and the increasing availability of professional caregiving services.