Filial piety tested by changing social realities

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IN many Asian societies, including Malaysia, filial piety carries strong cultural expectations. It is often framed in absolute terms, where caring for parents is seen as a moral obligation that should not be questioned.

But these expectations are increasingly being tested by changing social realities. The structure of families is different today. Households are smaller. Many young adults migrate to cities or even abroad for education and work. Dual-income households are common, leaving less time for caregiving.

At the same time, life expectancy is increasing, which means caregiving responsibilities may last longer and become more complex.

Young adults today are navigating a prolonged transition into adulthood. Financial independence is often delayed due to rising cost of living, job market uncertainty and housing affordability.

Many are managing work stress, career instability and, in some cases, debt. When caregiving responsibilities are added to this already demanding phase of life, the extra burden can create what psychologists describe as role conflict.

There is also the issue of emotional readiness. Caregiving requires patience, empathy and emotional resilience. Not all young adults are equally prepared for this role, especially if they have not been exposed to caregiving responsibilities earlier in life.

In families where there is a history of conflict, neglect or emotional distance, caregiving may be even more difficult. In such situations, the expectation to provide care can trigger unresolved emotions, including resentment or ambivalence. When responsibility is experienced as pressure rather than choice, it can affect the quality of care.

But this does not mean neglect should be tolerated. A legal framework may be necessary, but the law should not become the primary solution to what is fundamentally a complex human and relational issue.

Neglect itself is not always straightforward. It can range from clear abandonment to more subtle forms such as emotional withdrawal or inconsistent support.

Defining neglect in legal terms can be challenging, particularly when family circumstances vary widely. There is also a risk that legal mechanisms may be misused, especially in situations involving family disputes or financial disagreements.

More importantly, punitive approaches may not address the root causes of neglect. If young people lack the time, financial resources or emotional capacity to provide care, punishment alone will not solve these limitations. In some cases, it may even worsen family relationships by introducing fear and resentment.

This is why we need a balanced and psychologically informed approach. At the same time, it must be complemented by strong social and psychological support systems.

Families need access to affordable eldercare services, caregiver training, counselling and respite care. Community-based support can reduce isolation and share the burden of caregiving.

Employers can also play a role by offering flexible work arrangements for employees with caregiving responsibilities.

For young caregivers, access to mental health support is particularly important.

At a deeper level, filial piety should be nurtured long before caregiving becomes necessary.

Adolescence is a critical period for developing empathy, responsibility and family connectedness. Values such as respect and care are not formed suddenly in adulthood. They are shaped gradually through family relationships, socialisation and lived experience.

When these foundations are strong, individuals are more likely to provide care willingly and meaningfully later in life.

In the end, filial piety cannot simply be legislated. It must be developed, supported and sustained within a broader social context.

ASSOC PROF DR HASLINDA MUHAMAD

Department of Anthropology and Sociology

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Universiti Malaya