Abstract：With the spread of the globalization, the eastern and western values tend to mix together under the influence of interaction between each other. The traditional eastern collectivism values are being impacted by western individualism, especially the younger generation of Chinese youth. In the cultural exchanging process, with the influence of the western individualism, they younger generation is seeking the release of the personality, and also beginning to act forwardly and independently in the family relationships. Also, eastern collectivism also affected the westerner’s life. More and more children care about their parents’ emotion. Understanding the differences between Chinese and western family values and paying attention to their changes can help us to do intercultural communication activities easily.

 Thus, in this paper, based on Hofstede’s theory of individualism and collectivism, the author makes a comparative analysis between the family values of China and those of America through studying parents’ attitudes toward their children and children’s education, parents’ roles and the conflict resolution preference. It can be concluded that along with emphasis on individualism, independence and equality are shown in every American family. Chinese collectivism is embodied in mutual aid and unity between each family member. This is different living styles and values between America and China.-

Keywords:  family values  individualism  collectivism

Contents

Acknowledgements

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Significance of Research-1

1.2 Organization of the Thesis-1

Chapter Two Literature Review-2

2.1 The Definitions of Individualism and Collectivism-2

2.2 Hofstede’s Index of Individualism-Collectivism-3

Chapter Three American and Chinese Family Values from Perspective of Collectivism and Individualism-6

3.1 Parents’ Attitudes towards Children-6

3.2 Different Viewpoints about American and Chinese Parents’ Roles-8

3.2.1 Parents’ Role-9

3.2.2 Mother’s Role-9

3.2.3 Father’s Role-10

3.3 The Conflict Resolution Preferences of American and Chinese Families-10

Chapter Four Conclusion-12

References-13