Stories of Intergenerational Communication

Art designed by Nealie Ngo ‘18

Script written by CHATogether

Other Majors

An Asian-American student comes home after his or her first semester of college. This student has always been academically talented, but has been living in the shadow of his or her successful older sister.

The student wants to make the parents proud but also wants to follow his or her passions. The immigrant parent is supportive, but feels the child should pursue a field that the parent believes will lead to more security and better salary.

To resolve this conflict, the student and parent both must put forth effort to mentalize, be curious, be non-judgmental, and listen to the other’s thinking.

Depression

An Asian-American child approaches his or her parent about mental health. The parent has difficulty understanding how his or her child could be depressed, but wants to be supportive.

To approach this situation, the child and parent must be understanding, honest, and communicative with one another.

 Tips for Communication

created by CHATogether

How can we communicate effectively with one another? These flashcards in English and Chinese provide helpful ways in which parents and children can facilitate productive conversation on tough topics. Communication skills are an integral part of intergenerational cultural understanding.