Degree Date
7-2025
Document Type
Dissertation - NLU Access
Degree Name
Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology
Academic Discipline
Clinical Psychology
First Advisor
Leah Horvath, PhD.
Second Advisor
Bradley Olson, PhD.
Third Advisor
Tiffeny Jimenez, PhD.
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine how intergenerational trauma and other generational factors impact Mexican immigrant families. While intergenerational trauma has been well-documented among Holocaust survivors, war veterans, and historically marginalized communities, limited research has examined how such patterns manifest in Latin American immigrant populations, particularly Mexican American families. To address this gap, a narrative approach was used to collect the stories and background of nine participants. Thematic analysis revealed three central themes: childhood adversity, familismo (commitment to family), and resilience. While the data did not explicitly demonstrate trauma transmission, the findings revealed the lasting impact of early life adversity on family members. Familismo emerged as a significant cultural value, functioning as a protective factor and a source of internal conflict. Resilience, expressed in different forms across generational narratives, emphasized a collective capacity to adapt, reflect, and grow despite adversity. This study contributes to the understanding of Mexican immigrant family experiences and highlights the importance of culturally informed approaches to conceptualizing generational factors.
Recommended Citation
Torres, Azalia, "A Qualitative Exploration Of Trauma, Familismo, And Resilience In Three Mexican Immigrant Families." (2025). Dissertations. 918.
https://digitalcommons.nl.edu/diss/918