Tiger mum, Prof Amy Chua, 'stands by' tough parenting

How far would you go to ensure that your child does well at school? Would you ban playtime and TV? Or threaten to set fire to their toys if they don't complete hours of music practice?

You may think it extreme but the Chinese approach to parenting does seem to achieve academic success. Some research suggests Chinese girls are doing far better at GCSEs than any other ethnic group, including white British.

In her book, Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, Professor Amy Chua outlined the harsh parenting methods she says are typical of Chinese families and that are highly effective in producing successful children.