Intergenerational values differences between younger and older Hmong in the United States
Author(s):
Fang, Chao
Format:
Thesis
Degree granted:
Ph.D.
Publisher:
Ann Arbor : United States International University, 1997.
Pages:
105
Language:
English
Abstract:
The problem. An abundance of anecdotal evidence supports the contention that the older generation of Hmong living in the United States perceive various cultural values differently than do the younger generation of Hmong, who are more acculturated to American values. These inter-generational value differences are a major source of difficulty between the younger and older Hmong generations living in the United States and can cause significant problems and conflicts between the generations. However, no empirical evidence for these inter-generational value differences has been reported in the literature. The present investigation addressed this problem by seeking to provide empirical support for value differences on leadership, education, marriage, and family that are believed to exist between the older and younger generations of Hmong living in the United States. Method. One hundred and forty-five Hmong ranging from 18 to 69 years old participated in the study. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire along with the Fang Values Scale which assessed the degree of agreement with traditional Hmong values on leadership, education, marriage, and family. Data obtained from these four scales were then correlated with the age of the participants using Pearson product-moment correlations. Results. When evaluating the sample as an aggregate, older Hmong were more likely than younger Hmong to endorse leadership, marriage, and family values in accordance to traditional Hmong culture. Educational values did not vary with age. Subgroup analyses revealed that older Hmong men were more likely to exhibit this pattern than women. For women, traditional values regarding leadership, education, and marriage were similar for all ages. Family values were the only values assessed that women endorsed more traditionally Hmong with increasing age.