Abstract
This qualitative study explores the experiences of Hmong women and their perceptions of bride wealth practices within the Hmong community. A review of the literature reveals that there is little to no previous research done on Hmong bride wealth practices. In this study, eight Hmong women were interviewed regarding their experiences with the Hmong bride wealth practice and how it relates to their overall satisfaction in marriage and mental health. A content analysis of the qualitative data using a deductive approach and open coding found themes of the participants' responses that include the following: understanding bride wealth to be a monetary exchange between the bride and groom's families, respect for the tradition, financial stress, not defining their worth as a woman, and negative connotations for their younger selves. Although mental health distress was not a significant finding, implications for social work practice and future research are discussed.