Being a Hmong woman in America: A phenomenological study of female Hmong college students
Author(s):
Fendya, Jennifer Anne
Format:
Thesis
Degree granted:
Ph.D.
Publisher:
Ann Arbor : California School of Professional Psychology - Fresno, 1995.
Pages:
186
Language:
English
Abstract:
The present study was undertaken to better understand the psychological experience of being a Hmong woman in America from the perspective of Hmong women who were pursuing college educations. Unstructured interviews were conducted with 6 participants, who were asked to describe whatever was most important to them about their experiences as Hmong women in this country. These descriptions were analyzed phenomenologically, using procedures based on the methodology articulated by Colaizzi (1978). There were four principal findings. First, a Hmong woman's sense of identity and her ideas of what constitutes a successful life in this country reflect the tension between, and her attempts to integrate, American values of individualism and self-determination and Hmong values of interdependence and kinship. Second, support for a Hmong woman's aspirations both within and outside of the Hmong community provides confirmation and legitimization of her developing identity and helps her to cope with the stresses of a bicultural life. Third, for a Hmong woman, education is considered the key to a successful life, defined as one that includes economic self-sufficiency and security, increased personal autonomy within the context of ongoing relationships, and advancement of the family and Hmong community. The educational environment serves as a transitional space between cultures, providing her with opportunities for the exploration of her potentials and the integration and consolidation of her identity. Fourth, a Hmong woman's concern with dialogue reflects the juxtaposition of her growing sense of personal autonomy and differentiation from others with her desire to establish and maintain supportive relationships. Dialogue is recognized as a vehicle for achieving greater understanding of the differences between American and Hmong values and for promoting cultural change.