Publication Date

2007

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Department

School for Social Work

Abstract

This study was undertaken to discover resiliency factors and coping strategies utilized by Latinas in dealing with migration loss. Research conducted on people of color and particularly on women is limited. Strengths-based research on these communities is also minimal available. This study aimed to address the various gaps of information. Twelve Latinas with diverse ethnic backgrounds were interviewed. The women demonstrated an ability to articulate their experiences with migration loss and an ability to identify coping strategies. The participants of the study utilized many resiliency tools and coping strategies in order to survive and thrive in spite of having endured the challenges of migration loss. The three major themes found are: (1) Relationships as Sources of Resilience and Coping, (2) Self-Directed Strategies that Enhanced Resilience and Coping, and (3) Spirituality/ Religion as a Source of Resilience and Coping, There were various implications for social work identified from the analysis of the data collected in this study. Some of these are (1) clinicians need to be culturally competent to work with women of color, specifically Latinas, (2) clinicians need to be aware of effects of migration loss, (3) assistance with identifying and utilizing resiliency skills and coping strategies, (4) group and family therapy recommended as treatment modalities when working with Latina immigrants.

Comments

v, 80 p. Thesis (M.S.W)--Smith College School for Social Work, Northampton, Mass., 2007. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 65-68).

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