Hmong family processes and their impact on Hmong adolescents' delinquent behaviorsa correlational study

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to provide an understanding of Hmong family processes and to examine the importance of individual parenting variables that impact Hmong adolescents’ delinquent behaviors. The family variables to be study are, parental attachment, parental monitoring, and parental discipline practices. In addition, levels of acculturation were measured since previous study has shown that the correlates of delinquent behaviors among members of differing cultural and ethnic groups may be related to unique factors. There were 52 Hmong adolescents from Menomonie, Eau Claire, Wisconsin and Saint Paul, Minneapolis, Minnesota who participated in the study. The research study survey instrument consisted of three parts: demographic information, four levels of acculturation, and forty items measuring family processes variables and delinquent behaviors. Results were analyzed by the SPSS-10.0 statistical package. Pearson Correlation indicated that there is a high negative correlation between parental attachment and delinquent behaviors (r = -.760**) and parental monitoring and delinquent behaviors (r = -.808**). A positive correlation exists for parental discipline practices and delinquent behaviors (r = .601**). There is a correlation between levels of acculturation and delinquent behaviors (mean = 2.93). Other data shows that participants’ father’s level of education and mother’s level of education was found to be related to levels of delinquent behaviors. Additionally, the length of time live in the United States was significant to level of delinquent behaviors among Hmong adolescents. Further research is necessary to provide more effective programs and services to Hmong adolescents and their parents to ensure that they will grow up to become competent and responsible citizens. Recommendations were made for this research to assist Hmong adolescents and their parents.