Background: Context of the Trinidadian Mindset
My interviewees spoke on behalf of the general sweeping mindset of all Trinidadians. For middle and "upper"-class people in Trinidad and Tobago, one's mind is seen as the most powerful resource someone has. Once someone puts their mind to something, they have unlimited capabilities if they focus and put full effort to reaching their goals.
For many people who live in poorer countries, emigrating to the United States is a popular dream. It is seen as the land of opportunity and there is a chance for anyone to create success for themselves. The money earning possibilities are far more plentiful than in people's home countries. Trinidadians don't usually support the idea of moving to the United States and opening a small shop or business. Parents encourage their children to focus on school and higher education, and through this they can earn a stable, well-paying job.
Discipline is the principle to ensure that children will perform to the best of their abilities. During the times when Wendy and Derek were in school, teachers were allowed to physically discipline children in class, which gave them the extra motivation to behave exceptionally in school. Parents and teachers also had closer relationships, so as soon as a student was perfuming sub-par academically, the teacher could stop by a student's home and have a discussion with the parents. This ensured that parents were doing the proper disciplining for their students at home as well. Trinidadian parents also frequently physically reprimand their children for nor having accomplishing good academic success as well.
For many people who live in poorer countries, emigrating to the United States is a popular dream. It is seen as the land of opportunity and there is a chance for anyone to create success for themselves. The money earning possibilities are far more plentiful than in people's home countries. Trinidadians don't usually support the idea of moving to the United States and opening a small shop or business. Parents encourage their children to focus on school and higher education, and through this they can earn a stable, well-paying job.
Discipline is the principle to ensure that children will perform to the best of their abilities. During the times when Wendy and Derek were in school, teachers were allowed to physically discipline children in class, which gave them the extra motivation to behave exceptionally in school. Parents and teachers also had closer relationships, so as soon as a student was perfuming sub-par academically, the teacher could stop by a student's home and have a discussion with the parents. This ensured that parents were doing the proper disciplining for their students at home as well. Trinidadian parents also frequently physically reprimand their children for nor having accomplishing good academic success as well.