Applying Baumrind’s Theory to Chinese International Students

Abstract

Baumrind's theory had been used to describe families in the US since the 1960s, and schools have been utilizing its conclusions to make important decisions, such as disciplinary consequences and teaching styles. Because an increasing number of Chinese students are studying abroad, this paper investigated their experiences in western classrooms. This paper found that the longer they stay in their host country, the higher their chances of getting depression due to the disciplinary style utilized by schools. It is argued that Baumrind's theory cannot be applied to Chinese international student families, as language barriers, studying abroad, filial piety, and habits differences can create a cultural mismatch in the western perspective.