Stages of Displacement: The Immigration Experience of Latinos

Abstract

Limited research has been conducted that examined the experiences of Latino immigrants in transitioning to the United States. As the Latino population continues to grow in the United States, it is important for rehabilitation counselors to be knowledgeable of this population and the characteristics of their transition as it may provide insight to the mental health needs of Latinos. Research has shown that experiences of acculturation differ among individuals in terms of their age, gender, level of education, socioeconomic status and language acquisition ability (Berry, 2001). This qualitative study investigated the stages of displacement experienced by Latinos immigrating to the United States. Specifically, this study examined the acculturation, attitudinal, behavioral, cultural identity shifts, and transition characteristics of Latino immigrants. Five distinct stages of displacement for Latino immigrants emerged: seeking opportunities, emotional reactions, adjustment, rationalization, and acknowledgement. Implications for rehabilitation counselors are discussed.