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Tiger moms’ claws can be too sharp
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AMY L. Chua is a Chinese-American lawyer, writer, and legal scholar. She is recognized worldwide for her book “Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother.” In the book, Chua argues that Western parenting tries to respect and nurture a child’s individuality, while Chinese parenting tries to instill a strong work ethic in order to build inner confidence, preparing them for the future. Chua uses her tiger mother methods and succeeded in sending her two daughters to Harvard. The tiger mother’s Chinese-style education indeed accomplishes enviable success. However, I believe that this success can possibly damage a family’s relationship.
If you ask me, “Do you want a tiger mother?” My answer is, “Absolutely not!”
When her seven-year-old daughter did not play the piano well, Chua forced her to practice after dinner until midnight. She was not allowed to drink water or go to the bathroom during practice.
The children had to get straight As and they were made to try new foods.
When her daughter was told to eat caviar that she didn’t want to try, she broke her glass in protest and threatened to break them all.
Without a tiger mother, can a child be successful? Yes, certainly! If Bill Gates was raised by a tiger mother, she would not have allowed him to skip class or drop out of Harvard. Gates may not have been able to pursue his dream and create Microsoft and become a business magnate, philanthropist, investor, and inventor.
If Craig Kielburger had a tiger mother, he would not of been allowed to earn money from a part-time job in order to take a trip to India. He serendipitously met Nun Dran, a life changing experience, and later became the founder of Free the Children, one of the biggest charity organizations in the world.
From these famous examples, I feel that I do not want to have a tiger mother. I need a mother who encourages and supports me for my interests. She can provide guidance and support when I am astray.
My mother’s concern and encouragement will lead to my academic success not harsh punishment. That is the mother that can truly educate and provide a loving environment.
Success can also be unforgettable warm memories of childhood and learning.
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