Hmong Culture Essay

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1. What are the most important aspects of Hmong culture? What do the Hmong consider their most important duties and obligations? How did they affect the Hmong’s transition to the United States?

One of the most important aspects of Hmong culture is the group and family dynamic. The Hmong considered farming their most important duty because it was a major source of income when they were in Laos. The story regarding the Hmong family who attempted to grow vegetables inside their second story apartment was an example of this (Fadiman, 1997, p. 226). The Hmong found the transition difficult since the thing they knew best, farming, was taken away from them. Thus, they were forced to fit into roles that were foreign to them.

2. What does Dan Murphy …show more content…

It is clear that many of Lia's doctors, most notably Neil Ernst and Peggy Philp, were heroic in their efforts to help Lia, and that her parents cared for her deeply, yet this arguably preventable tragedy still occurred. Can you think of anything that might have prevented it?

There are certain aspects that may have provided better treatment, but probably could not have prevented the tragedy. Clear communication and understanding for the culture were essential aspects that were lacking during her treatment. Additionally, the presence of a questionnaire like the one developed by Arthur Kleinman would have bridged the gap between the patient and the provider (Fadiman, 1997, p. 260).

4. What did you learn from this book? Would you assign blame for Lia's tragedy? If so, to whom? What do you think Anne Fadiman feels about this question?

I learned about the diverse cultures present in today’s society. It is very easy to ignore the beliefs that do not perfectly align with our own. This book addresses that issue very well. I would not blame anyone for Lia’s tragedy. I believe that she was just a victim of her circumstances. Although it could have been handled in a better fashion, it is not anyone’s fault that there were language and cultural barriers. Anne Fadiman seemed unbiased and probably feels the same way about this

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