Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Kimberly McCann

Abstract

Racism that is either blatant or perceived has contributed to all contemporary markings of group advantage and disadvantage along ethnic and racial lines, which includes differences in education, employment, housing, health, and health care. Understanding how these elements are impacting immigrants will be the key to helping this population overcome problems they might experience. One demographic whose emotional experiences have yet to be fully explored are Haitian immigrants. The purpose of this qualitative narrative study was to explore how the political climate under the Trump administration impacted the psychosocial lived experiences of Haitian immigrants who immigrated to the United States during 2017–2020. Critical race theory was the theoretical foundation for the study. The study was conducted through semi structured, telephonic interviews by having the nine participants describe their stories regarding depression under the political climate of the Trump administration. The information collected was transcribed and analyzed thematically to identify any overarching themes. Three themes and six subthemes were found among the data. Theme 1 was better opportunities, and subthemes were life was not easy and better quality of life. Theme 2 was immigration process, and the subthemes were obstacles and South Florida. Theme 3 was Trump administration, and subthemes were personal gain and racial climate. The information gathered will contribute to positive social change by identifying the effects of the political climate, the immigrant’s mental health, and the stressors that face Haitian immigrants. The findings of this study may lead to a better understanding of how to facilitate mental health care for this population.

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