Between Two Cultures: A Study in Socialization of Children of Immigrants

This paper reports findings from a study of socialization of children of the immigrant Indian and Pakistani families in a city of western Canada. Values and ideals emphasized by parents in socializing their second-generation Canadian children and the children 's reaction to these values were examined. In a highly selective approach to socialization, the immigrant families have willingly accepted changes in more pragmatic aspects of life but have rather strongly resisted alterations in their core values. This selective emphasis has widened the apparent generation gap and in certain cases has given rise to value conflict. As traditional social control measures weaken, and as the demand by children for greater freedom increases, some fundamental modifications in other important values and ideals, e.g., respect for age and authority, may be experienced.