Undocumented Healing: Strengths and Resilience from the Shadows
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Date
2021-11-23
Authors
Rojas-Arauz, Bryan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to better understand the experiences of undocumented and DACAmented (those with the temporary protection of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students in higher education and American society. Utilizing semi-structured interviews to elicit the testimonios of undocumented and DACAmented college students, I: (a) identified barriers and challenges faced by the community; (b) highlighted undocumented student’s perspective on mental health; (c) determined barriers and recommendations to resource utilization; and (d) identified protective factors and psychological strengths undocumented students possess and utilize to overcome challenges. In order to explore the narratives and understand the experiences under investigation, a testimonio qualitative analysis (Pérez Huber, 2009) was utilized for the research design and analysis making the participants testimonio both product and process (Delgado Bernal et al., 2012). Thirteen participants met research criteria (e.g., undocumented and DACAmented university students attending the institution, at least 18 years old, consenting to participating and being audio recorded). I examined the semi-structured interviews using testimonio methodology analysis (Pérez Huber, 2009) to identify community narratives utilizing a Critical Race Theory (Delgado & Stefancic, 2017) and Latino Critical Race lens (Delgado Bernal, 2002; Solorzano & Yosso, 2001; Valdés, 1996) paying special attention to aspects of identity (e.g., immigration status, language, oppression, etc.). Identifying challenges, barriers and recommendations to resource utilization, perspectives on mental health, as well as protective factors and psychological strengths can better inform outreach efforts, psychological interventions, academic services provided while increasing our understanding of student experiences.
Results revealed societal, documentation, academic, and health challenges faced by undocumented students. Results also offered individual, cultural, and generational perspectives on mental health services among undocumented students. I also provide a set of existing barriers and recommendation to increase effectiveness and use. Lastly, we provide a list of protective factors and psychological strengths utilized by the community to overcome obstacles. The findings from this research study have valuable implications for research, training, and practice. It provides practical recommendations for universities, faculty, and counselors working with this population. Most importantly, the study centers and amplifies the voices of those most affected by the current conditions, undocumented students themselves.
Description
Keywords
CRT, DREAMers, Poetry, Strengths, Testimonio, Undocumented Students