Date of Conferral

12-23-2025

Date of Award

December 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Jana Price-Sharps

Abstract

In this qualitative study, the evolving perceptions of law enforcement among child immigrants from Central and South America following their immigration to the United States were investigated. Anchored in social learning theory, the aim was to discern whether interactions with law enforcement in their home countries and the United States influence these perceptions. A phenomenological approach was used to conduct in-depth interviews with six Latino individuals who immigrated between the ages of 7 and 17 and are at least 18 years old at the time of their interview. Participants were recruited through purposeful sampling, and interview questions were used to explore their experiences with policing in their home countries, their initial perceptions of police in the United States, and their current views on law enforcement. The data gathered from participants' responses identified three themes: distrust, good and bad in law enforcement, and training. The results of this study showed that better understanding and trust can be built between the Hispanic immigrant community and law enforcement. The study also showed that trust takes time and training. For both the Hispanic immigrant community and law enforcement, this will require effort and a better understanding from both communities.

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