Career Counseling of Chinese American Women: Are They in Limbo?

The voices for political and financial equality as well as freedom in work and family appear persuasive in the United States. The traditional cultural thoughts, however, persist to alienate Chinese American women from their American counterparts and from the world of work. Counselors play a vital role in exploring the cultural values and specific career needs of Chinese American women and in promoting a healthier environment in which Chinese American women can be empowered to fulfill their optimum occupational potential. In this article, the cultural values and vocational barriers of Chinese American women are explored, and suggestions for career counseling approaches are provided.