Why Asians May Struggle With Accepting Kindness

Summary: Have you ever felt like a free gift isn't really free? For many Asian people, accepting kindness can feel like getting a bill. In many Asian cultures, honor and respect are very important. Because of this, a simple gift or compliment creates an "emotional debt." If someone buys lunch, you feel you must pay them back. If someone gives a compliment, you have to brush it off so you don't look proud. While this comes from a good place of wanting to show gratitude, it can turn generosity into a stressful contract where friends act like an "emotional mafia." Sometimes, the best way to say thank you is to just accept the gift without fighting over the restaurant bill!

For more details, see Psychology Today at psychologytoday.com/us/blog/minority-report/202604/why-asians-may-struggle-with-accepting-kindness (opens in new tab)