The Influence of Parental and Self-Expectations on Asian American Women Who Entered College Early

Abstract

Asian immigrant parents may hold high expectations for their children to excel academically and professionally. Filial piety and the desire to make their parent(s) proud can motivate these children to achieve but can also place undue pressure on them. In this qualitative study, researchers explored how seven Asian American women who entered college 2 to 4 years earlier than same-aged peers perceived their parents’ expectations and the influence of these expectations on their academic and career decision making. In-depth interviews revealed that the majority of women experienced high expectations from their parents for academics and careers. Several also reported experiencing parental pressures, social isolation, eating disorders, and depression during their college years. Implications for well-being are discussed.