The question of whether a child owes his parents is deeply rooted in cultural values, social norms and personal beliefs. The perspectives on the subject vary widely between Eastern and Western cultures, reflecting differences in family expectations, independence, and obligations.
Cultural perspective
In Eastern societies, especially in India, China and Japan, there is a long tradition of family responsibility. The social structure is designed to ensure that every generation takes care of the people above and below, thus creating a sustainable cycle of care. In India, for example, it is natural to take care of the parents of children, not obligations, but as basic obligations.
Historically, the united family system has strengthened the idea, and grandparents have played an active role in the life of their grandchildren. This deeply rooted belief system stems from witnessing previous generations fulfilling the same responsibilities. Therefore, taking care of children of parents is not a pampering, but a natural continuation of long-term customs driven by love and respect.
Western Views
On the contrary, Western culture attaches more importance to independence. Children are encouraged to become self-sufficient from an early age and often work part-time jobs in their teenage years to support themselves. By adulthood, they usually leave their homes, fund their education, and eventually build an independent life.
Although love and feelings are still strong, there are clear boundaries for responsibility. Aging parents do not automatically expect their children to take care of them. Instead, they usually rely on savings, pensions, or retirement facilities. If the child does provide support, it is usually financial assistance or arrangements for comfortable advanced living facilities.
India’s emerging dilemma
As globalization and westernization influence Indian culture, traditional ideas about caring for parents are undergoing a shift. Many young Indians were going abroad to educate and work, settle abroad and raise families there. This has led to an increasing number of older parents living alone in India, leading to crises, especially in emergencies like the 19 Covid-19-19 pandemic.
Parents who once encouraged their children to seek better opportunities abroad now face emotional and logistical challenges of aging alone. Expectations for care and companionship conflict with the reality of geographical distance, visa restrictions and financial constraints. This shift has led to a rising demand for high-quality retirement homes and assisted living facilities in India, reflecting a change in the way parents care is taken.
Looking to the future: changing dynamics
As these cultural shifts continue, parents and children are adapting. Parents may begin to expect a child’s direct involvement to less, and children may seek new ways to fulfill their responsibilities far away. The concept of responsibility for parents may not disappear, but its execution may develop, combined with financial support, telecare, and dependence on professional aged care services.
Ultimately, the question about whether a child owes his parents cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. It is shaped by the growing dynamics of cultural nurturing, personal environment and family life. Although love and respect remain universal values, how they manifest in care responsibilities will continue to change over time.
Dr. Pallavi Rao Chaturvedi.
