Respect for the elderly in Asia: Stability and change

This study analyzes data from seventy-nine focus groups conducted in the Ph ilippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand. The research examined ways in w hich respect for the elderly is experienced in these four countries, the ex tent to which respect has changed over time, and the reasons for changes in respect for the elderly. Using qualitative analysis, five distinct dimensi ons of respect were identified: gestures and manners, tokens, customs and r ituals, asking for advice, and obedience. Focus group discussions indicated that changes have occurred on most of these dimensions of respect. The cha nges were attributed to variations in family structure and function, educat ion, income, and modernization. These findings are discussed in relation to changing definitions of respect and variations in the way in which respect for the elderly is expressed in Asia.