A qualitative inquiry of Latino immigrants' work experiences in the Midwest.

Abstract

Latino immigrants are the largest source of immigrant workers in the United States. In this study, 11 first-generation Latino immigrants (8 men, 3 women) living in the Midwest were interviewed about their work experiences. Interview data were analyzed using consensual qualitative research methods (Hill, Thompson, & Williams, 1997). Five domains associated with the data included work for survival and power, work for social connections, work as self-determination, work barriers in the Midwest, and access to work in the Midwest. We identify ways in which vocational psychologists can intervene to work effectively with Latino newcomers seeking employment in the United States and to support their transition into new settlement communities. Suggestions for future research with immigrant workers are discussed.

Leadership and motivation in the African Diaspora: The United States and Canada

“…On the other hand, the Canadian participants highlighted the role of having a good work ethic, describing their culture as hardworking and strong. These findings are in line with the psychology literature that has found a general association between a good work ethic and a strong character, as well as the importance of social connections and a strong work ethic among immigrants (Flores et al, 2011). These similarities and differences about the participants' cultural backgrounds and attributions indicate that perceptions about leadership and motivation among the African Diaspora are less likely to be monolithic as they have been shaped by the integration of the dominant beliefs, values, and cultures of their country of origin and influenced by Western societal cultures.…”

“…These findings are in line with the psychology literature that has found a general association between a good work ethic and a strong character, as well as the importance of social connections and a strong work ethic among immigrants (Flores et al, 2011). There were, however, differences in the participants' culture attributions in the US and Canada.…”

Facing Double Jeopardy: The Transition Experiences of Latina Family Caregivers of Young Adults With Disabilities Living in a Rural Community

“…Furthermore, the discrimination participants experienced at work, school, and in the community reflect the institutionalized racism and discrimination commonly reported in the literature. For example, similar to this study, Flores and colleagues (2011) found that barriers in the workplaces of Midwestern Mexican immigrants (e.g., discrimination, poor pay, hard labor) were associated with diminished mental health. The present study expands on previous research by describing the trickle-down impact that negative workplace environments not only have on employees, but also on their families (Gassman-Pines, 2015).…”

“…In light of the many instances of discrimination experienced by participants and their sons and daughters with disabilities, policymakers and community leaders (including local employers) should review current antidiscrimination laws, policies, and practices and solicit input from Latino community members on ways in which they can improve current practices and accountability procedures. For example, employers may consider (a) offering mental health support for employees to help them cope with stress from caregiving responsibilities; (b) providing workshops to facilitate cultural awareness and responsiveness; (c) ensuring that employees understand how to recognize discrimination and other forms of injustice, as well as their rights and workplace supports; and (d) collaborating with community organizations to offer English language classes to interested employees (Flores et al, 2011).…”

‘There You Enjoy Life, Here You Work’: Brazilian and Dominican Immigrants’ Views on Work and Health in the U.S.

“…Understanding the work experiences of different immigrant populations and the association between workplace exposures and health and wellbeing is a vital step to addressing workplace conditions. Previous research on the work experiences of Latinos in the Midwest revealed that participants worked demanding and difficult jobs for survival and power, social connections and self-determination, and faced barriers spanning from legal status to English proficiency [23]. Additional research on Latina’s work experience and found high workloads, cultural tension, hazards, lack of access to healthcare and of work-family balance were threats to their wellbeing [24].…”