Working the Ruins of "Tiger Mom" Parenting: Educational Strategies of Korean Immigrant Mothers

• In Event: Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual iPresentation Only: Division G - Section 6: Inquiry in the Social Context of Education Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

This research focused on Korean immigrant mothers’ educational strategies to unpack cultural, trans-cultural, and intergenerational intricacies. While the Tiger Mom narrative is situated in relation to Asian culture, this study explored how Korean immigrant mothers actively adapt to the evolving norms of American society, and de-Asianize themselves. The qualitative data on Korean immigrant mothers shows a clear shift in their beliefs, and thereby challenging the dominant portrayal of education-frenzied. First, Korean immigrant mothers are aware that what is at stake is not academic performance, but the ability to cultivate and showcase distinctive talents. Second, the narratives reveal how closely these mothers collaborate with their children to identify their talents, adopting guiding and nurturing roles rather than exerting control.

Author

• Jung - Ah Choi, St. Peter's University