In China, parents are not expected to work after the age of 65. They may live with their children, who often financially support them in their older years. If an older parent is working, it is viewed as a disgrace to the family. In the United States, parents often work as long as they are able or need to in order to financially support themselves. When they grow older and are unable to live alone, they rarely live with their adult children. What would explain the difference in how the older parent is viewed in China compared to in the United States?
A) In democratic societies there is more guilt about needing to care for the older adult.
B) Cultural patterns vary in how older adults are viewed.
C) Citizens in richer countries are more able to care for older adults.
D) Less-developed countries encourage more independence among older adults.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The difference in how the older parent is viewed in China compared to the United States can be attributed to cultural patterns. In China, filial piety is highly valued and it is traditional for children to support their aging parents. On the other hand, in the United States, there is a greater emphasis on individualism and independence, which may result in older adults living on their own or in care facilities rather than with family.

In China, Parents Are Not Expected to Work After the Age