The “Tiger Mom” phenomenon is back in the spotlight, thanks to a recent revelation about Amy Chen and her adult daughters. Several years ago, Chen gained notoriety with her provocative book advocating for a rigorous parenting style to ensure her children’s success. Now that her daughters, 23-year-old Mia and 20-year-old Ella, are adults, it appears that her strict approach hasn’t softened. In a recent article in the New York Times, Chen disclosed that she required her daughters to sign a detailed contract before they could return home for the summer.
Living Arrangements and Responsibilities
Mia and Ella are currently working in the bustling environment of New York City, and they plan to stay rent-free in the apartment that Chen and her husband, Tom, meticulously saved for over two decades. Concerned about potential misuse of their generosity, Chen, drawing on her experience as a law professor, crafted a comprehensive agreement designed to maintain order in the household.
The contract begins by outlining ownership of the apartment and emphasizes the responsibilities that come with staying in their parents’ home. The daughters are required to adhere to a series of demanding stipulations, including the necessity of sharing a bedroom and bed, making it daily without dispute. Other stipulations are equally stringent:
- They must greet their parents with genuine enthusiasm whenever they come home.
- The phrase, “Just relax, it’s not a big deal,” is strictly prohibited.
- When guests arrive, they are obligated to present themselves promptly and engage with visitors for a minimum of fifteen minutes.
- They must stock the fridge with fresh juice from the local market on days their father is around.
- Maintaining order in the living area, including fluffing pillows and cleaning the table after use, is non-negotiable.
Moreover, the contract stipulates that these duties remain in effect regardless of the daughters’ circumstances, whether it be illness, fatigue, or personal crises.
Public Reactions
Responses to Chen’s contract have varied widely. While some view it as a sensible means of establishing structure, others criticize it as overly demanding. As one commenter aptly noted, “They are your children; it’s your duty to support them throughout their lives.” Although Chen believes she is offering guidance, her approach seems reminiscent of her past parenting style.
Setting Boundaries for Adult Children
Living under a parent’s roof often comes with certain expectations, whether it involves chores or other responsibilities. Although few parents might impose the same conditions as Chen, the idea of setting boundaries for adult children returning home is not without merit. This ensures that they remain productive rather than indulging in a lazy summer filled with aimless activities. In that light, a strict contract may not seem so unreasonable after all.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, Amy Chen’s insistence on a contractual agreement for her adult daughters has sparked a wide array of opinions. While some praise her for establishing clear expectations, others believe she is overstepping by imposing such strict rules. Ultimately, the discussion raises important questions about boundaries and responsibilities within family dynamics.