Date of Award
Fall 11-22-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Organizational Unit
Graduate School of Social Work
First Advisor
Miriam G. Valdovinos
Second Advisor
Ramona Beltran
Third Advisor
Anthony Fulginiti
Copyright Statement / License for Reuse
All Rights Reserved.
Keywords
Bicultural, Caregiver-adolescent conflict, Chicana, Latinx values, Suicide, Youth
Abstract
Over the past decade, youth suicide rates have surged (Curtin & Hedegaard, 2019). However, trends often obscure the significant impact of suicide-related behaviors within communities of color, especially Latinx youth (King et al., 2018). Latina adolescents experience higher rates of suicidal thoughts and attempts than their male counterparts, highlighting the need for targeted research and interventions (CDC, 2021).
This dissertation examines Chicana adolescent suicidality through the lens of Gloria Anzaldúa’s borderlands theory (1987), with a focus on biculturalism, cultural values, and caregiver-adolescent conflict. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the study explores the lived experiences of Chicana adults who attempted suicide as adolescents. Semi-structured interviews with 11 adult Chicanas offer insight into how cultural and gendered identities shape their mental health struggles.
The findings reveal a lack of emotional support and connection between Chicana adolescents and their caregivers, which exacerbated the mental health challenges triggered by expectations and bicultural stress. Participants often felt a lack of belonging, intensified by bicultural policing, gendered expectations, and the pressures of familismo. These dynamics significantly contributed to caregiver-adolescent conflict and, eventually, suicide attempts. This research underscores advocates for the development of culturally sensitive mental health interventions tailored to the specific needs of Chicana youth.
Copyright Date
11-2024
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.
Rights Holder
Xochilt Alamillo
Provenance
Received from author
File Format
application/pdf
Language
English (eng)
Extent
172 pgs
File Size
1.5 MB
Recommended Citation
Alamillo, Xochilt, "Ni de Aquí, Ni de Alla: Exploring the Role of Biculturalism, Cultural Values, and Caregiver-Adolescent Conflict in Chicana Adolescent Suicide" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2506.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/etd/2506
Included in
Chicana/o Studies Commons, Latina/o Studies Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Social Work Commons