Aging in America

This article summarizes elderly abuse in China inflicted by family members, who ultimately become caregivers of their parents. The purpose of this article is to make the public aware of the physical, emotionally and psychological abuse that frail elders experience after retirement in China. The author educates the reader’s on cultural differences in China, abuse patterns, statistics of abuse patterns and the outcome of the abuse.
    Most of the material we have discussed in class can be implemented in this article. Every level of Maslow’s Hierarchy, role reversal, identity roles, taboo, major clinical depression, isolation, suicide, physical congruence, dysthymic disorder, and dependency behaviors are all a part of this article.
    China is based on the term “Generation vs. Self Absorption.” they generally are wrapped up in the cultural aspect of teaching the “meaning” of their tradition and culture to the young. They hope that their younger generations will carry on these sacred traditions. As I read further into the article I realized this was all a cover up to what really happens to the treasured elders at the hands of their own children, is nothing short of psychological, emotional and physical abuse.
          Culturally, on a macro level, China passes down traditions.   China has a sense of preserving their name, and honor as a country. Because of the cultural “emphasis” on the preservation of family harmony and honor, elderly abuse remains taboo. No one talks about the abuse. When a person does find out about the abuse, the family is angered and feels that the public should stay out of their business. According to Chinese tradition, having an elderly in the family is like having a “treasure.” Due to the rapid growth of the elderly population, this sense of tradition is making a rapid change. The “treasure” of elders has been replaced with “burden.”
Culturally in China, “parents are expected to take good care of their children and in return, adult...