Hmong Body Image

I can still hear the echo of my mother’s voice when I told her I was leaving my job to go back to school full time. In her loving demeanor and ever so softly toned voice, she said, “If you would have focused on education instead of your social status back then, you would be a doctor by now.” I could not believe my ears! However, I knew exactly what my mother meant and sadly responded with, “you are right mother.” I was twenty seven, a mother of two, and about to sacrifice so much for higher education. This was not going to be easy but I was determine to do it for myself and my family. In the past, my parents stressed the importance of education and did all they could to support us through it. However, my priority as a teen was my appearance.
The pressure of having a model thin body symbolizes beauty. For many, being thin allows them to feel good about themselves. Many Hmong girls struggle with body image and feel the need to be thin for many reasons. The pressure to be a good wife ties in with beauty. If you are overweight, it is likely you will remain single and no one will marry you. Moreover, society and social media can be less accepting of people who are overweight. Images of thin, beautiful women flood our media. The need to compare and change the body can affect Hmong teen girls. They become blind to the importance of education, but rather, focus on how thin and beautiful they should be. One way to reduce the idea of having a model thin body for Hmong teen girls is to educate the parents about the importance of education verses early marriage. Some parents are oblivious of the benefits available for education. Some parents believe through marriage, a spouse will take care of their daughter. However, if they understood the lifestyle changes of the American culture, they will see the benefits of higher
I would have played with dolls a little longer. In addition, wore less make-up and no high-heel shoes. I also would worry less about the number of friends I had or who I was dating. I would have listened more to my parents because they knew more than I could have. All of the things that did not benefit me would be reduced or eliminated. Wow, how different my life would be if all this was possible? Despite the ill feelings and setbacks, I do not regret my past. The choices I made molded me into the person I am today. God has a plan for me, and all along he was guiding me toward this road I am on today. I have a beautiful family of my own and will achieve a bachelor’s degree in business management this December. Most importantly, I feel I can be a role model for my children and provide opportunities to allow them to become successful individuals. Moreover, I can continue to guide them to achieve the highest educational experience possible. Today, I can proudly say I have learned many life lessons and wise beyond my