Exposing the Hushed Latina Immigration Experience
Abstract
Based on an original quantitative study, this paper is written to present the unique experiences of 62 self-identified, Latina immigrants in refugee-like situations (aged 22 to 84). Latino Worldview, stress-coping theory, and the model of posttraumatic growth provide the theoretical framework for this discussion. Spanish versions of instruments were used to collect data. Pearson’s product moment correlations yielded positive outcomes of posttraumatic growth in participants who left family members in countries of origin. Additionally, a negative association of posttraumatic growth with talk levels about immigration experiences was found. It is speculative that spirituality and religious resources may moderate statistically significant associations. Findings have implications for theory and practice; recommendations for policy and curriculum development are offered.