"Tiger" Parenting.

Eh, what I don't get is how the connection is made between 'right' and what the parents advocate. Let's take one of the two most common examples. Piano. For the other most common one, making a child do well at math is probably beneficial because science often requires it, and scientists are in demand, so it would make sense if they want their child to have a job. But piano? It's nice to listen to and all, but if you strip away all the happiness by beating the child into performing, then there's practically nothing left. Last I recall I don't think there was significant demand for piano players, so apart from the prestige maybe... how is this 'right'?

Again, you're thinking in an asian mindset. Therein lies the problem. It doesn't MATTER what your parents want. If you want to be a Pianist, should you not be allowed to pursue that? What is the point of your life if not to chase your dream to the bitter end? A parent's job would be to inform you that Scientists are in higher demand and that it will be easier to get a job that way, however they should also support you fully in the pursuit of your dream.

You may be content to go into a mediocre lifestyle with a job you don't want, going to bed and waking up every morning worrying about job security. Checking the bills and worrying over whether they can be paid. Going to a job you don't want and resent it the entire time. Go home and kick off your shoes to try to enjoy yourself, well guess what, no time for that. You've got kids to feed so you begin cooking. Then you go do some other things that need doing but I guarantee they're not at the top of your list of a good time. So you see, you struggle all through school, only to struggle through life. I realize that this has become almost necessary in the world we live in, but that is the true problem.

If you had worked hard and become an accomplished Pianist, you may have the same exact day, except for one part. You like your job, perhaps even love it. It gives you a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. Maybe you don't have as much for your child's super expensive university fund. But you'll be a happier person, and a better person for it. Hell, you'll even be a better parent. Let the people who have a true interest in science explore the sciences. Life is now the pursuit of money, that's pathetic. It should be the pursuit of happiness. Money is not happiness. Follow your dreams.