Date of Award

4-18-1994

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

Abstract

This research study explores cultural attributes possessed by Guatemalan immigrant families living in the United States that are or could be utilized to aid the families in dealing with the challenges presented during the process of becoming bicultural. This exploratory study involved the voluntary participation of four Guatemalan immigrant families living in Minnesota identified through their affiliation with Protestant and Catholic Spanish-speaking church congregations in the Twin Cities area. The data was collected through three to five hour qualitative interviews conducted in Spanish. The study's findings conclude that Guatemalan immigrant families possess cultural attributes, similar to those found in other Latino immigrant families described in literature, that serve as resources throughout the biculturation process. In addition, families participating in this study identified their faith, ability to endure, and hopeful outlook on life as aiding them in dealing with the challenges of the biculturation process.

Identifier

SC 11.MSW.1994.Swensen.MK

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