Group 1 - The phenomenon of "involution" in education is prevalent in China, where both children and parents face immense pressure to succeed academically, leading to a competitive environment that tests not only intelligence but also parental involvement and resources [1][2] - In the United States, the emphasis on educational attainment and the right connections is similarly intense, with a focus on extracurricular activities alongside academic performance, indicating a broader approach to parental investment in children's futures [1][2] - The concept of "educational capital" is introduced, which encompasses economic, cultural, and social capital, highlighting how these factors influence children's educational outcomes and future social status [3][4] Group 2 - The book "Parents' Disparity" discusses the shift from "elitism" to a society defined by parental disparities, where a child's future is increasingly determined by their parents' resources and aspirations [3][4] - In Japan, the term "parental disparity" reflects the growing gap in educational environments, with a significant focus on private schooling, which is financially burdensome for many families [4][5] - The trend of "parental competition" leads to varying outcomes for children based on their family backgrounds, resulting in a widening gap in educational success and social mobility [5][6] Group 3 - The concept of "double-peaked" learning ability distribution is introduced, indicating that children's academic performance is closely tied to their family backgrounds, with affluent families producing higher-achieving students [6][7] - The societal divide in Japan has intensified over the past two decades, with the once-prominent middle class experiencing significant fragmentation and disparities in educational access and outcomes [7][9] - The pressures of educational competition are not unique to China, as similar trends are observed across East Asia, where parental resources and expectations heavily influence children's futures [9][10] Group 4 - The narrative of "uncertain love" in parenting highlights the struggle of balancing academic pressure with emotional support, as seen in the experiences of families in China [10][11] - The focus on academic success often overshadows children's mental health and well-being, leading to significant stress and anxiety among students [11][12] - The traditional family structure in China, where mothers often bear the brunt of educational responsibilities, contributes to heightened emotional conflicts and pressures within households [16][17] Group 5 - The book "Uncertain Love" illustrates the challenges faced by middle-class families in China, where the pursuit of educational success creates a paradox between a happy childhood and a secure future [14][15] - The competitive educational landscape in China is characterized by a relentless focus on high-stakes exams, which can overshadow the importance of nurturing children's individuality and creativity [15][16] - The societal expectation for parents to invest heavily in their children's education creates a cycle of anxiety and pressure, reflecting broader economic and social challenges [17][18]