"Like Being in Purgatory": Cultural Identity Mapping Centers Hmong American Experiences of Biculturalism.

This study investigates the meaning of biculturalism among Hmong American emerging adults living in central California, using an arts-based method called cultural identity mapping alongside the Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure (MEIM). Findings reveal a predominant experience of "bifurcated biculturalism," wherein participants perceive their Hmong and American cultural identities as split and often incompatible, necessitating frequent cultural frame-switching to navigate these distinct selves. The study highlights gendered and religious cultural conflicts, internalized ethnic stereotypes, and generational divides as key barriers to integrated bicultural identity development. Methodologically, cultural identity mapping proved effective in capturing the complex, sometimes contradictory psychological experiences of biculturalism that standard surveys may overlook. The research underscores the need for educational institutions to support the cultural identity development of underrepresented Hmong and Southeast Asian American youth through culturally validating curricula and representation.