College students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Unpacking the meaning of thriving through conversation with DACA friends and allies

Abstract

ABSTRACT Prior research on thriving has primarily portrayed it as a positive experience, which it often is; however, we extend past theorizing by showing how there can be a “cost” to thriving. Specifically, this study explored DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) college students’ conceptualizations of thriving by analyzing transcribed audio-recorded conversations between 32 dyads, consisting of a DACA student and one of their friends (i.e., an ally friend or a DACA friend). Recognizing the effects of systemic oppression, we added a new component of thriving – fundamental well-being – that encompasses the need for basic human rights and safety. A thematic analysis of the data revealed juxtaposing meanings of thriving and possible “costs” of thriving. Three pairs of juxtaposing themes emerged: (a) outcome- versus process-oriented, (b) self- versus family-oriented, and (c) thriving as activism versus thriving under the radar. Uncovering these lived realities among DACA students extends previous theoretical understandings of thriving.