Identity Formation and Post-Traumatic Growth Among Central American Immigrant Youth

Abstract

To examine how Central American immigrant youth move from experiences of trauma to psychological growth as they transition into adulthood. The sample consisted of 20 (10 males and 10 females) adolescent and young adult immigrants (ages 18–26) from Honduras (20%), Guatemala (35%), and El Salvador (45%). Most participants migrated unaccompanied when they were 13 to 20, and their average time in the United States was 4.4 years. Data were collected with Identity, Inc., a community-based organization that supports Latino youth (ages 8–25) and their families living in poverty in Maryland. Semi-structured life history interviews were conducted in Spanish by a bilingual, bicultural staff member in person and on zoom. A diverse research team used a grounded theory approach to code transcripts in pairs, and then synthesize this coding within a post traumatic growth framework. A grounded theory approach was used to conduct open, axial, and selective coding of translated and de-identified transcripts. Findings from this study revealed the potential for post-traumatic growth, including a sense of one’s strength and enhanced meaning and purpose, and the importance of positive interpersonal connections in fostering growth. This study demonstrates a capacity for growth in Central American immigrant youth that goes beyond acculturation or coping with trauma and supports the value of trauma-informed services for this population.