Son asks if it would be selfish to leave his family and live with his wife | The Independent Singapore Feature
By Yoko Nicole Family responsibility is deeply ingrained in many Southeast Asian cultures. But denying a son to live with his wife is extreme. My feature in The Independent Singapore shares how to navigate the divide between familial responsibility and responsibility to one's spouse. Unlike in the West, where independence is prized, these societies emphasize collectivism—where a child’s duty to their parents lasts a lifetime. Respect isn’t just about obedience; it includes financial support, co-residence, and making life choices that align with family expectations. Filial [...]
