Abstract
This phenomenological mixed method research study investigated Hmong American women around the United States that were called “poj laib [female villain/bad women]” and how they make meaning of that experience as they navigated their education, career, and personal development. This study utilized a survey to understand how Hmong women feel about the word “poj laib” growing up and how they feel about the word presently on a five-point Likert scale. I sent the survey to various Hmong women organizations and social groups, in which there was a total of 142 respondents to the survey. I analyzed the survey data and saw the emerging theme that majority of the Hmong women affirms the word “poj laib” as a derogative term, and yet many have mixed experiences neither positive nor negative. This study also investigated the perspective of 13 Hmong American women who were called “poj laib” in how they make meaning of that experience. I conducted semi-structured interviews with each participant during Fall 2022. I analyzed the interview transcripts in grouping them into themes. There were several major themes on how the Hmong women experience and make meaning around the word “poj laib”: being a good Hmong woman, defining “poj laib”, the role of “poj laib” in the Hmong culture, support and resources, influence of “poj laib” within education and careers, as well as the legacy of “poj laib” Hmong women. Additionally, another major theme was how the word “poj laib” played a role in the Hmong women’s identity development. I utilized Downing and Roush (1985) Feminist Identity Development and Critical Race Theory to analyze and interpret the findings. This study provided insights and a framework around the experience and mean-making among the Hmong women being called “poj laib”, as they navigate a patriarchal culture.