The Nguyens' situation is not unique. Asian immigrants are usually stricter parents than are Asians raised in America. Asian culture stresses duty and family. The generational conflict lies not only in parents' ethnic backgrounds but in their immigrant experience. Their American-raised children usually do well in school because of the push and discipline they receive from their parents, who have a strong determination to succeed, Sakamoto said.
Immigrants tend to be very motivated people.
Immigrant parents make a lot of sacrifices to get where they are and they want their children to be successful. Seangurai has spent most of his life here. When his stepfather, an American in the Air Force, died in 1977, Seangurai's family decided to move to Abilene because they knew a close friend of his stepfather lived here. With his mother, Seangurai owns and operates Bangkok Thai Cuisine on South 1st Street. Business has been tough.