Having a relatively low status, nurses are not often involved in treatment discussions with Japanese patients. Compared to the approach often used in the U.S., Japanese nurses are significantly underutilized. At home, an important hierarchial structure exists within the Japanese family. Typically, the mother is the main childrearer, as well as being solely responsible for housekeeping, education, and finances. Family medical care is usually coordinated by the mother.
Japanese fathers are accustomed to heavy work obligations and often work very long hours.
Family roles can change dramatically for a new immigrant family. Particularly in cases where the Japanese mother speaks little English, the wife may be forced to depend more upon her husband in financial, medical, and educational issues. For some families, this role reversal can be highly stressful. Japanese women typically take their children with them whenever they leave the house. Babysitters are seldom used, as the mother feels that she should be available to her child at all times.