#12 Negative reinforcement

It is undeniable that having a Chinese upbringing more often than not has produced many upstanding members of society. Delinquent drivers aside, the steady production of legal, financial and health care professionals ensures the continued betterment of society (and the survival of Starbucks)

While child-rearing varies greatly from culture to culture, the difference in style between Western and Chinese culture when it comes to encouragement is similar to the difference between night and day. The method used by Chinese parents to encourage their children is known as 'negative reinforcement' which is defined as, "a behavior strengthened because a negative condition is stopped or avoided as a consequence of the behavior."

This phenomenon can most commonly be observed when tests are returned to a Chinese student. With a score of 90% or greater, a non-Chinese parent would be ecstatic, with the test being worthy of center-fridge placement. In a Chinese household, it is almost guaranteed that the phrase, "Where did the other 10% go?" is uttered, most assuredly causing irreparable damage to the child's self-confidence. This barrage of negative reinforcement only ceases when marks are brought up to an acceptable level, such as 98%. This phenomenon can be extended into career situations where the phrase will change to "Why aren't you a doctor/lawyer/engineer yet?".

For non-Chinese looking to give their Chinese friends a hard time or display their knowledge of negative reinforcement, the phrase "Where's the other x%" is appropriate as a start. For situations where the test score is in the range of 80-90%, the one-two combo of , "So, that's like...Asian fail, right?" followed with, "Man, you're parents are gonna be PISSED" is suitable. This will either destroy their confidence forever or make you two BFF.