| The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of Taiwanese parachute kids, or unaccompanied minors, who came to the U.S. for various reasons. The present study utilized a retrospective, phenomenological approach to address the research questions by interviewing 10 adults who came to the U.S. as parachute kids. They specifically gave information on their experiences as parachute kids and how these experiences had influenced their adolescent years and their views about life. The participants' ages ranged from 19 to 36, with a 5 to 24 year duration in the U.S. The data gathered from the interviews revealed 7 major categories, 20 major themes, and 3 minor themes. The major categories consisted of the impact on family relationships, social relationships, sense of independence, impact on the parachute kids, parental care, and self care. Major themes included better education and more opportunities in U.S., prior U.S. exposure, initial difficulties, distance from parents, parents' worry and concern, support of siblings and friends, learn to make friends, more comfortable with Asian peers, activities to build friendship, negative behavior and coping skills, broadened views and experiences, "missing out," parental accompaniment, importance of adult supervision and caretaking, lack of adult supervision, self discipline, don't be scared, get support, speak up, and be ready. Lastly, the minor themes included language barrier, culture shock, and sense of loneliness. A model was developed to better understand the experiences of parachute kids and to generate interconnections among the variables involved in their overall experiences. Although all parachute kids in this study struggled with language barriers, emotional challenges, lack of parental support, and a sense of loneliness, they were able to overcome challenges and to embrace their experiences. Participants recognized the importance of gaining support from family and friends as well as being mentally prepared for the move prior to immigration. As a result of a broadened worldview and the development of self, participants acknowledged the experiences of parachute kids as "worthwhile" and "rewarding."... |
