Purpose
This study was conducted to explore experiences of the development of parent-child relations among Korean college students.
Methods
The participants were 18 Korean college students. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, and the main question was, "Could you tell me about how your relationship with your parents has developed?". Data were analyzed using Strauss and Corbin's grounded theory methodology.
Results
The central phenomena of the experiences of parent-child relations among Korean college students were 'new realizations about parent-child relations' and 'competing against parents'. The major action/interaction strategies were 'having an equal status to one's parents' and 'keeping parents at a distance'. Consequences included 'going beyond the bounds of parental guidance'.
Conclusion
These findings indicate that students tried to give back to their parents, and also endeavored to stand apart from their parents in order to obtain independence. Their efforts were influenced by their parents' efforts to be tolerant towards their children. The findings emphasize that Korean college students experienced the process of building new, interdependent relations with their parents.