Understanding When and Where European American and Chinese American Mothers Express Warmth and Control

Abstract

The present study examined the specific situations in which European American (EA) and Chinese American (CA) mothers expressed warmth and control. Ninety-four EA and 90 CA mothers of preschool-aged children were interviewed. EA mothers emphasized expressing warmth when structuring their children'sdaily routines, during playtime activities, and moments that pull for physical intimacy. In contrast, CA mothers emphasized expressing warmth when their children faced difficulties. Both groups equally emphasized the importance of expressing warmth during moments of positive child behaviors and learning. EA mothers emphasized control in areas involving children'sphysical safety and interpersonal behaviors. CA mothers used control with children'sdifficult behaviors and moral conduct. Both groups similarly emphasized expressing control in situations of child learning and daily schedules. More enculturated CA mothers were more likely to express warmth during moments of positive child behaviors and parenting control in situations of child physical danger and daily schedules.