Stronger bonds help enhance family life in HK   

Hong Kong has experienced a significant socioeconomic transformation over the past few decades, which has influenced family structures and dynamics. Rapid urbanization, increased participation of women in the workforce, and globalization have contributed to a shift in traditional family values. As a result, various family problems have arisen, affecting individuals and communities alike.

Historically, Hong Kong placed significant emphasis on Confucian values, such as filial piety and family unity. However, with modernization and urbanization, traditional family structures have undergone changes. The extended family model, in which several generations lived together under one roof, has gradually transitioned to a nuclear family model consisting of parents and children. This shift has led to reduced intergenerational interactions and a weakening of the support system within families. Additionally, as more individuals seek opportunities outside Hong Kong, the phenomenon of “migrating families” has emerged, leading to further challenges in maintaining familial bonds.

Hong Kong, like many developed regions, faces demographic challenges, including an aging population and a declining birthrate. The aging population means that more elderly individuals require care and support, placing additional responsibilities on the working-age population. This phenomenon is often referred to as the “silver tsunami”, wherein the proportion of older adults is increasing rapidly. Simultaneously, the declining birthrate leads to smaller family sizes, reducing the potential pool of caregivers for the elderly. Balancing these demands becomes a critical issue for families, impacting their overall dynamics and well-being.

Hong Kong's fast-paced and competitive lifestyle often results in long working hours and high levels of stress for individuals. This situation affects the quality and quantity of time spent with family members. Work-related demands can leave limited time for familial interactions, leading to strained relationships and reduced emotional connections. The lack of a healthy work-life balance can also lead to burnout and adversely impact the physical and mental health of family members.

Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety and stress, are prevalent in Hong Kong, yet they remain stigmatized in society. This stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help and support from their families. Consequently, family members may not recognize the signs of distress or may be hesitant to discuss mental health openly. The lack of open communication restricts family members' ability to offer the necessary support and understanding, leading to further isolation and challenges when dealing with mental health issues.

Hong Kong's soaring property prices and limited land availability contribute to an affordable-housing crisis. Families, especially those with lower incomes, struggle to find suitable accommodations, leading to overcrowded living conditions. Such living arrangements can exacerbate tensions within families and create an environment that is not conducive to fostering strong family bonds.

Hong Kong's education system is renowned for its competitiveness, and students face tremendous pressure to excel academically. As parents are deeply invested in their children's success, they may push them relentlessly, leading to increased stress for both parents and students. The intense focus on academic achievements can strain family relationships, as discussions often revolve around school performance rather than fostering open communication and emotional support.

Hong Kong's rapid economic development has led to growing income disparities, with a considerable wealth gap between the rich and the poor. Families from lower-income backgrounds face significant challenges in accessing opportunities for advancement and resources to improve their overall well-being. Economic inequality can result in social tensions and stress within families, impacting their overall stability and harmony.

Addressing family problems in Hong Kong requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges the changing dynamics within families, the impact of societal pressures, and the challenges posed by economic conditions. By implementing strategies to enhance work-life balance, promote mental health awareness, provide affordable housing solutions, reform the education system, and address economic disparities, Hong Kong can foster healthier family relationships and create a more supportive environment for families to thrive.

Work-life balance is crucial for maintaining healthy family relationships and individual well-being in Hong Kong's fast-paced and competitive environment. Encouraging employers to offer flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting, flexible hours and compressed workweeks, allows employees to better manage their work and personal commitments. This flexibility enables parents to spend more quality time with their children and engage in family activities.

Promoting mental health awareness and providing support within families can help reduce stigma and foster open communication. Launching public awareness campaigns to destigmatize mental health issues and promote the importance of seeking help and support can encourage families to have open discussions about mental health. Introducing mental health education in schools and community centers can help young individuals and parents understand the importance of mental well-being, recognize signs of distress, and learn coping strategies. Ensuring easy access to counseling and mental health services for individuals and families in need can provide the necessary support during challenging times.

Investing in community-based family support programs and counseling services can empower families to cope with challenges and build resilience. Implementing parenting programs that provide guidance on effective parenting techniques and communication skills can enhance family dynamics and improve parent-child relationships. Establishing family counseling centers that offer professional counseling and mediation services can help families navigate conflicts and strengthen their connections. Organizing support groups for families facing specific challenges, such as single parenting or caring for elderly family members, creates a platform for sharing experiences and seeking advice.

Reforming the education system to reduce pressure on students and parents can improve family relationships and overall well-being. Promoting a holistic approach to education that values character development, emotional intelligence and creativity can reduce the intense focus on academic achievements and foster a healthier learning environment. Implementing assessment methods that emphasize continuous evaluation rather than relying heavily on high-stakes examinations can alleviate stress on students and parents. Promoting extracurricular activities and interests beyond academics can provide students with a more balanced and fulfilling educational experience.

Promoting gender equality can lead to more equitable family roles and responsibilities. Ensuring equal opportunities for women in the workforce through policies and initiatives can support women who are balancing career and family life. Encouraging shared parental responsibilities, such as parental leave for both mothers and fathers, can create a more supportive family environment and strengthen bonds between parents and children.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

Lau Kin-shing

The author is vice-president of the Hong Kong Psychological Counselling and Consultation Society.