Gender roles and second language acquisition in Hmong acculturation
Author(s):
Jewell, Cora Mae
Format:
Thesis
Degree granted:
Ed.D.
Publisher:
Ann Arbor : West Virginia University, 1992.
Pages:
247
Language:
English
Abstract:
The Hmong, a freedom-loving people, lived in Northern Vietnam and Laos. During the Vietnam War, many in Laos assisted the CIA; in retaliation, the Communists attempted to destroy them. Several thousand Hmong ultimately became refugees in the United States. This study, using ethnographic methodology, explored the relationship between their gender roles and second language acquisition. Influences from the host culture were conveyed through language. Change in gender roles was found to have occurred in all areas examined, but those changes were occurring in proportion to the acquisition of English. Responsibilities within perceived gender roles prompted second language acquisition. The increasing acquisition of English opened new roles which again activated a motivation for additional education. A feedback-cycling action was present. Although education was highly valued, pressure to marry early prevented many young people from completing their education and developing marketable skills. Generational conflict occurred as young people assumed non-traditional roles because of language facility and nonliterate elders found their traditional roles diminished. Second language acquisition for the nonliterate presented great learning hurdles. Several useful programs dealing with these problems and presently being used throughout the country were described.