ORCID ID

0000-0002-5582-3966

Date Awarded

Summer 2018

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Department

Education

Advisor

Victoria A Foster

Committee Member

Natoya H Haskins

Committee Member

Jacqueline Rodriguez

Abstract

This research study explored how undocumented immigrants define and experience mental health. A review of literature about undocumented Latinx immigrants emphasized that even in high distress, this population underutilizes mental health services. Data were analyzed through the lens of Latinx Critical Race Theory in an effort to conceptualize the role of multiple marginalization on the mental health state of undocumented Latinx immigrants. Eight undocumented Mexican immigrants in one city in a southern state were interviewed using semi-structured, open-ended questions. A transcendental phenomenology method was used to explore how this population experiences mental health. Data analysis revealed five themes that suggest that this population has a negative experience with mental health. The negative experience with mental health was influenced by family, community, and political climate. Additional findings are also discussed, along with implications for counselor education and clinical practice, limitations, and areas for further research.

DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.25774/w4-zddn-8947

Rights

© The Author

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