China

The Chinese believe that a strong family is the basics of a good society. The extended family is an important part of Chinese society. In a traditional Chinese family the elderly live with a son and help take care of their grandchildren. Some Chinese families favor sons over daughters because sons carry on the family name and are expected to look after parents in old age. In Japan belonging to an honorable family is a source of great pride. Couples have only one or two children and most grandparents must live on their own or in a retirement home.  

In a Chinese family grandfathers are usually considered to be the head of the family. The elders in the Chinese family are respected for their knowledge and experience. Their advice is sought and carefully considered in family decisions. The grandmother is considered the head of the household and receives special treatment. Families of Chinese culture feel it’s their duty to care for their parents when they are old to care for themselves. For elderly people who have no family, some cities provide "Home of Respect for the Aged." In most Chinese families both parents work outside the home. All children are expected to spend part of their time doing work for the community, such as cleaning classrooms or streets. Chinese families feel that ancestors still influence daily life even though they’re dead.