TED Talks Daily Why children of immigrants experience guilt -- and strategies to cope | Sahaj Kaur Kohli
May 6, 2021
Sahaj Kaur Kohli, a mental health advocate and founder of Brown Girl Therapy, discusses the unique guilt often faced by children of immigrants. She highlights how cultural expectations and family responsibilities can create emotional challenges. Kohli shares valuable strategies for coping, such as defining personal values and practicing self-compassion. By fostering community and encouraging self-reflection, she aims to support those navigating the complexities of cultural identity and family dynamics.
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Immigrant Children and Guilt
- Children of immigrants often feel guilty for not meeting expectations and being "too American".
- This stems from pressure to justify their parents' sacrifices and straddling two cultures.
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Guilt
- Healthy guilt is a moral compass, alerting us to harmful actions and prompting amends.
- Unhealthy guilt arises from adopted values that don't align with our own.
Dealing with Unhealthy Guilt
- Question your guilt and identify its source, differentiating between your values and your parents'.
- Practice self-compassion, recognizing that navigating these feelings is a learning process.