HOW TO DEAL WITH ASIAN PARENTS

Hey Jesse Neo!

I am born in America but my parents were born overseas in Korea which makes them Asian parents. I am having a lot of difficulties with them because they never let me out the house or let me do the things I want. They treat me like a dog and only let me do the things they want me to do. They never let me see friends, never let me shop, took away my TV and only let me use the computer for educational purposes. I am already 17 years old and I have no friends. I'm getting a feeling that if my parents keep treating me like this I won't be able to survive on my own in the real world. Please, I need some advice on how to deal with Asian parents, or at least, strict parents like mine.

Signed,
  -Lily

Dear Lily,

Having strict Asian parents for many American-born children is a common thing, but even though it is common, it is still hard to deal with. Your parents were not born in your country and therefore their culture and philosophy in life is completely different to yours.

My only advice is for you to talk to your parents and explain how their overprotective behaviors are affecting you. If you can't, at least tell someone to do so for you. You may search for a Korean pastor or even a counselor that can speak Korean, or a language that your parents understand.

If it does not help, the only choice is to force yourself out. You only have a year before you turn 18, and once you do, you are legally an adult and can move out. Your parents won't be able to stop you, even if they call the police. But before that can happen, you must save up. Do you have a job? How much money do you have? Where will you live? Who will you live with? These are some things for you to consider.

If you would want more advice or hope to stay in contact with me, feel free to add me on MySpace and/or Facebook and/or Twitter! Just hit me up a message or comment anytime! I promise to reply to them all!

Best regards,
  -Jesse Neo

Comments