This study aimed at exploring the influence of parental expectation, parental rearing patterns and parental involvement to disadvantaged families’ children who were academically outstanding. The research method was based on qualitative research, using semi-structured interview and observation to collect data. From these children’s perspective, the researcher investigated how disadvantaged families brought up academic outstanding children. The findings were as following: 1. Parental expectation All parents from these six families had high academic achievement expectations on their children, and set goals for them to achieve. 2. Parental rearing patterns Two out of six families were “Democratic”. Parents in such rearing pattern were good at giving systematic guidance. Three families were classified as “Authoritative”. Parents in this category acted democratically on the surface，but their attitude and wording shown a strict demand for children. One of the families was considered as “Authoritarian”. This type of parents strictly controlled children’s schoolwork and life. Integrating parental rearing patterns of these six families, it found out all parents care their children’s study condition and their ability. They would supervise studying and playing time for children but also support and respect children’s thoughts. They praised and rewarded children for academic outcomes. No matter how tough the life was, all parents were willing to educate their children for better future. 3. Parental involvement The parents in each family would use their limited time and abilities to involve children’s studying.
