- 'Saving face': This is a central principle in Asian cultures and refers to the need to preserve the dignity and reputation of a person in the face of an embarrassing or disruptive event. Because of the importance of this concept, emotions or psychological difficulties may not be disclosed for fear of reflecting poorly on families; mental health issues and other challenging health issues often remain concealed in order to 'save face'.
Family cohesion is highly valued amongst most East Asian immigrants. Consider family-centred care as opposed to nuclear family care.
- For people from collective cultures, stress of relocation increases as people encounter individualist culture values. Be cognisant of collective culture principles (described in the 'CALD 1: Culture & Cultural Competency' course) when working with families with these values.
- During the migration and acculturation process, traditional practices can become heightened. The need to 'save face' may result in mental health and other health conditions not being disclosed, or the extent of difficulties not being revealed. Assist people to re-frame difficulties so that they can 'save face' and receive support.
- Traditional values for East Asians may depend on how many generations removed families are from immigrating ancestors. Assess each family and person individually.
