Family is a universal name all over the world. Even though, different cultures can influence on the traditions of the family, it is the only place on earth full of love. I have a deeper understanding on the relationship between family members since I came to America and lived with two host families as an exchange student. The difference between Chinese and American families is significant and profound which also reflects the distinctive culture and value difference.
American family I observed is an equal, democratic and freedom unit. Parents and their kids are more likely friends. Kids talk freely about their life and school things. Parents have a closer bond with school and involve in all kinds of school activities such as attending sports games. Parents respect children's opinions and support them to make their own decisions. In school, Americans decide their major field of study, perhaps without their parents' influence. The freedom allows children to disagree, even argue with their parents, while in most other cultures such action would be a sign of disrespect. It is simply a part of developing one's independence. Parents also treat every family member equally and make democratic decisions. Once, when I lived with my host family, we had one time to decide whether it is necessary to buy a new car, because there were more people vote for "no", then we chose not to do so. The negative aspect of American families is evident because the unstable marriage always causes the high divorce rate. Family violence and abuse can also been seen on the media.
Back to china, several key features of the Chinese family have existed for thousands of years. Some of them are still valid in modern Chinese societies, whereas others are changing. In the past, the traditional vision of family life in China is a strong family unit led by the father or the husband, who largely has absolute rule and control of the family. But now in most Chinese families, the husband and wife, work out together and decide family affairs. The Chinese people have the tradition of respecting the old and loving the young. Though many young couples do not live with their parents, they maintain close contact with them. Grown up children have the duty to support and help their parents is part of our tradition. For instance, my mom and dad visit both my grandparents every month and have dinner together. The marriage is fairly stable which brings less divorce rate. However, all parents have expectation on their children's academic performances which restricts children's other activities. Parents also make decision for their children such as choosing a college or a major which limits their independence thinking.
Family life is a lot difference between two countries. No matter, in China or in America, the base of this society comes from the harmony of families. It is a place full of love, fun and support. The love of a family is life's greatest blessing.
American family I observed is an equal, democratic and freedom unit. Parents and their kids are more likely friends. Kids talk freely about their life and school things. Parents have a closer bond with school and involve in all kinds of school activities such as attending sports games. Parents respect children's opinions and support them to make their own decisions. In school, Americans decide their major field of study, perhaps without their parents' influence. The freedom allows children to disagree, even argue with their parents, while in most other cultures such action would be a sign of disrespect. It is simply a part of developing one's independence. Parents also treat every family member equally and make democratic decisions. Once, when I lived with my host family, we had one time to decide whether it is necessary to buy a new car, because there were more people vote for "no", then we chose not to do so. The negative aspect of American families is evident because the unstable marriage always causes the high divorce rate. Family violence and abuse can also been seen on the media.
Back to china, several key features of the Chinese family have existed for thousands of years. Some of them are still valid in modern Chinese societies, whereas others are changing. In the past, the traditional vision of family life in China is a strong family unit led by the father or the husband, who largely has absolute rule and control of the family. But now in most Chinese families, the husband and wife, work out together and decide family affairs. The Chinese people have the tradition of respecting the old and loving the young. Though many young couples do not live with their parents, they maintain close contact with them. Grown up children have the duty to support and help their parents is part of our tradition. For instance, my mom and dad visit both my grandparents every month and have dinner together. The marriage is fairly stable which brings less divorce rate. However, all parents have expectation on their children's academic performances which restricts children's other activities. Parents also make decision for their children such as choosing a college or a major which limits their independence thinking.
Family life is a lot difference between two countries. No matter, in China or in America, the base of this society comes from the harmony of families. It is a place full of love, fun and support. The love of a family is life's greatest blessing.
