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“The Invisible Load: Expectations Placed on Eldest Daughters in South Asian Families”
In many South Asian families, being the eldest daughter isn’t just about birth order—it’s a role, a responsibility, and often, a silent sacrifice. From a young age, eldest daughters are seen not as children with needs and feelings of their own, but as caretakers, peacekeepers, and cultural standard-bearers. The load is heavy—and most of the time, it’s invisible. Born to Care Before You Understand What That Means The moment a South Asian girl becomes a big sister, her identity starts to shift. She’s no longer just a daughter—she’s a second mother. She’s taught to look after her siblings, watch what she says, stay mature, and set an example. There is…