LEADER PREPARATION

• Find articles on the problems faced by Korean American youth and make copies for discussion handouts.
• Tell the youth group the topic of discussion in advance.
• Prepare a group activity that is appropriate for the topic in discussion. A role play of problems depicted in the articles is an idea.
• Obtain an overhead projector, cassette player, and the transparency ready for the song described below.

GROUP BUILDING

Ask for volunteers in the youth group to role play a couple of the problems common in a Korean American family. It is a good idea that they are prepared in advance. The volunteers need to be lighthearted about their act. Be sure not to offend anyone or hurt someone very sensitive to the issue.

GROUP PRESENTATION

Invite a guest speaker who is experienced in working with Korean American youth. The presentation should include discussion of tough issues facing Korean Americans teens today.

GROUP DISCUSSION

• What is the most difficult thing about being a Korean American youth today?
• Why do you think you have these problems with your parents? What do parents want from you?
• What causes these problems among Korean American youth?
• What are some of the advantages of being a Korean American? Disadvantages?
• How do you want the parents to treat you?
• What can our organization/group/church do to help or cope with your problems at home and school? How can others help?

WRAP-UP

• It is not unusual for Korean American youth to have conflicts between being a Korean and an American.
• There are many advantages to being Korean American. They are bilingual and bicultural. They have a rich heritage in which they should be proud.

EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP

Ask the group the following questions:

• Was the opening activity appropriate for the topic?
• How was the speaker? Was he/she effective in communicating ideas to the youth?
• Did the group share openly during the discussion?
• Is there any need for a personal follow-up or some type of counseling?

1. Old wounds maybe reopened for some of the young people. It may make them angry, frustrated, or embarrassed. Be sensitive and wise in dealing with this topic. Professional counseling may be needed for some teens. Be aware and be available for them.
2. A new identity as a Korean American may emerge. Support groups will help them realize that they are not alone in facing the unique situations and problems of being a Korean American teen.
3. Feelings may be expressed and processed. It can be a healthy exercise that brings healing.

James Kim and Grace Kim cCYS

IMPLICATIONS

To help Korean American youth effectively address cultural adjustment issues.

OVERVIEW