Date of Conferral

12-23-2025

Date of Award

December 2025

Degree

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Michael Langlais

Abstract

This study explored the social and psychological challenges Afghan refugee professionals experienced when they entered the U.S. workforce after being forcibly displaced. Trauma, job loss, and cultural adjustment significantly impacted their mental health and reintegration. The study examined how social and psychological obstacles impacted their cultural adjustment, well-being, and capacity to deal with credentialing and professional demands. This research employed a qualitative phenomenological design, grounded in Conservation of Resources (COR) Theory and the Stress Appraisal Model, using 60-minute audio-only, semi-structured interviews with 10 Afghan refugee professionals. Using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA), according to the findings, participants faced challenges relating to language competency and credential recognition, widespread underemployment, emotional strain from trauma and acculturation, and loss of professional identity. Participants reported feeling alone and devalued, but they also showed resilience backed by cultural coping mechanisms, family, and the community. To better serve Afghan refugee professionals, these findings have implications for the need for formal credentialing processes and culturally sensitive mental health treatments. Strengthening community-based initiatives that improve the integration and well-being of Afghan refugees, reducing underemployment, and expanding fair workforce access can all lead to positive social change. Helping Afghan refugees with their professional reconstruction and psychological well-being improves their quality of life, promotes safer communities, and aids in the prevention of violence.

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