The Eldest Daughter Syndrome: Navigating Complex Identities as Women from Immigrant Families

• In Event: 40820 - Section on Sociology of Sex and Gender Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 8: Family and Gendered Division of Labor

Abstract

Second-generation immigrant women often serve as cultural brokers within their families, navigating the complex space between their heritage and the demands of their new cultural context. As they transition into adulthood in the United States, they face the dual challenge of upholding cultural and gender roles linked to their pre-immigration backgrounds, while also adapting to contemporary American norms. This research explores the experiences of eldest daughters from immigrant families, focusing on how they negotiate and define their identities. It challenges the traditional "eldest daughter syndrome" narrative by examining the intersection of gender, immigration, and culture in shaping these women’s identities during their transition to adulthood. Drawing on sociological theories of institutions, intersectionality, social identity, and gender expectations, this study investigates how eldest daughters balance the pressures of familial and societal expectations. Through 40 semi-structured interviews, I analyze how these responsibilities impact their self-perception, self-presentation, and their ability to navigate and reconcile their identities in diverse social environments. The findings highlight key challenges and identify opportunities for developing support systems—such as policies, programs, and community initiatives—that empower eldest daughters and foster their growth.

Author

• Tharuna Kalaivanan, George Mason University