New arrivals have trouble distinguishing between different types of stores. For example, they may look for a hammer and nails in a grocery store. Prices and labels on products are unfamiliar. In their past experience, they had to bargain for a price agreeable to both the buyer and the dealers. The Hmong are made up of clans.
Clans names are family names.
People with the same clan name are related and their children are cousins or nieces and nephews and are totally prohibited to marry with one another, or even discuss anything involving sex. For the peace of mind of the new arrivals when they first arrive they should stay with their relatives for a short time. Those who take refuge with other people of a different clan name must clearly explain why. Sponsoring groups should be aware of the time taken to build up trust between the new arrivals and the sponsors. Even with common language there is still a time when the new arrival and the sponsors cannot come to terms with certain issues.