People of Chinese Heritage

China is the second most populous country in Asia and the second most populous country in the world, with a population of 1.409 billion. Chinese people who live in the “Chinatowns” in the United States maintain many of their cultural beliefs and values and insist that health-care providers respect these values and beliefs with their interventions. In the United States, over two million people identify themselves as Chinese. A university education is highly valued; however, few have the opportunity to achieve this life goal because of limited enrollment opportunities. Often, young adults come to Western countries to attend universities seeking more advanced prestigious educations. Ideals based on the teachings of Confucius play an important part in their values and beliefs, emphasize the importance of family, and reinforce the idea that all relationships embody power and rule. Other important values are filial piety, industry, patriotism, deference to those in hierarchal positions, tolerance of others, loyalty to superiors, respect for rites and social rituals, knowledge, benevolent authority, thrift, patience, courtesy, and respect for tradition.