Intergenerational Tension, Connectedness, and Separateness in the Lived Experience of First and Second Generation Chinese American Christians

Abstract

Few studies examine the intersection of family, culture, and spirituality. This study looks at the intergenerational relationships in Chinese American Christian families as experienced by first and second generation family members. An interpretative phenomenological analysis was used (n = 16). Results reveal that both generations experience intergenerational tension and disconnect; how participants navigated this was further categorized into two intergenerational relationship types: “intergenerational connectedness” and “intergenerational separateness.” Findings highlight four key points: (a) the maintenance of family in spite of strong themes of disconnection, (b) how Christianity could serve as a new primary culture, (c) generational differences in response to disconnection, and (d) gender differences of first generation parents. Clinical implications for family therapists, limitations and future directions are discussed.