1.5 Generation Chinese resilient under unique challenges

MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION

29 JULY 2013

1.5 Generation Chinese resilient under unique set of challenges

A snapshot into the world of 1.5 generation Chinese living in New Zealand shows they have three striking similar qualities: the same recipe for mental resilience; parents with open minds; and with a desire to have a more rounded, enjoyable education for their children.

However, for some, their resilience comes at a price: bullying, name calling, intimidation, language struggles and lack of acceptance in their first few years in New Zealand has been distressing.

KXXD 1.5 Generation Project

This window into the lives of an inspirational, albeit uniquely challenged, generation is the result of a series of interviews now screening on the Mental Health Foundation’s (MHF) bilingual website Kai Xin Xing Dong (KXXD) as video clips and online stories.

The videos relate the experiences of Auckland students with Chinese heritage who migrated to New Zealand, between the ages of six and 18 years, with at least one adult family member. The online articles give the perspectives of children, teenage and adult 1.5ers, and two parents.

Called the 1.5 Generation project, these stories provide a new way of looking at the issues faced by this generation, identified by the Mental Health Foundation’s KXXD Advisory Group as being vulnerable to psychological distress. This open dialogue will provide new resources and information to assist the Chinese community’s awareness and understanding of its 1.5 generation, and also the wider issue of mental illness.

Key discovery a surprise

Most 1.5ers interviewed say they are happy living in New Zealand, despite many taking some time to adjust.

They have learned to be self motivated and to fit into both worlds – Chinese and Kiwi. All spoken to have at least one parent who encourages them to integrate: play sport, learn an instrument, and help others learn and take notice of everything that is going on around them.

And many of those parents, although keen to see their children study hard and go to university, are open about the need for a more balanced life.

Ken: “We want them to be happy and successful and enjoy their time in school … Education is so important but we need to know how to keep a balance in their lives.”

Several barriers to adjustment

Most students have felt the pull towards both cultures – Kiwi and Chinese – and some are not sure who they are, or how they fit in.

Some say it took four or five years to really feel they belonged in New Zealand, and were better able to adjust. This breakthrough often came with the ability to better understand, and express themselves in the English language.

Catherine says: “In Year Eight I went into an extension class, a big up for me. But it wasn’t until high school that I found who I am.”

Older students give examples of bullying, or teasing: racist name-calling, being intimidated by angry drivers, “fighting games” where Chinese students are physically out-matched, and being told to “go back to your country”.

Catherine says: “I was bullied for not being able to speak English, mainly in Year 6, which destroyed my confidence. Murray’s Bay school was very supportive, though, especially the principal. I learnt to just let [the bullying] go.”

Comment from Judi Clements, Chief Executive, Mental Health Foundation

“We know that preventative factors such as a strong sense of belonging, well established and supportive networks and a close family bond are all key to maintaining good mental health and wellbeing.”

“Although these young people show considerable resiliency, there are still many challenges that they have faced such as bullying, feeling out of place and isolated due to language and cultural barriers.

“Attending a school where they are not a minority, and where good peer support systems are in place, also assisted their transition into Kiwi school life.

“Better integration between international students and mainstream school remains a challenge for schools. Even more so for those where 1.5 generation students are in the minority.”

Books and other resources available

The Mental Health Foundation’s Resource & Information Service has put together a selection of 1.5 generation resources that are available through the library at 81 New North Rd, Eden Tce, Auckland.

http://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/page/27-Welcome

ENDS

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