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Abstract
As Hmong transition to life in America, efforts are made by Hmong to maintain traditional cultural practices. This article explores the traditional practice of early marriage among Hmong women and their responses to this practice. As Hmong women acculturate to American ways, women may question the role of traditional practices in their identity and everyday lives. This study examines the family socialization and individual processes associated with teenage marriage among Hmong American women. Interviews with 12 Hmong American women who were married in their teens describe their experiences.
Notes
Portions of this manuscript were presented at the Hmong Diaspora Institute on October 22, 2011, Madison, WI.
1. The Hmong were recruited as soldiers in the “Secret War,” a U.S.-backed effort against communism in Laos.
2. Hmong families are members of 1 of only 18 clans and have one of the only 18 surnames (Mclnnis, Share all of the surnames 1991). All 18 clans are represented in the United States.
3. In Hmong marriage practices, the husband may send the new bride back to her parents' home, signifying the initiation of a divorce resulting in loss of face for the young woman and her parents.
4. The participant used the phrase “cause trouble” to refer to the act of taking on adult responsibilities at such a young age.
5. This recommendation is consistent with the CitationNASW Code of Ethics (2008) statement of responsibility to clients in the area cultural competency and social diversity. The CitationNASW Code of Ethics (2008) suggests that social workers develop an understanding of the client's culture and the function of culture in the client's life and their interaction with society.