Abstract

The purpose of the research is to understand the varied life histories and experiences of a paternal immigrant family. The research investigates the question: What are the immigrant generational differences of a paternal family in regards to acclimation? The study is informed by literature on Afro-Caribbean immigration to the United States that reviews assimilation and identity as well as the occupation and economy for immigrants of color. The research is analyzed through two schools of thought centered in the social sciences: 1) segmented assimilation, that provides a better outlook on how immigrants of today assimilate into the American society, and 2) tridimensional acculturation that explains the adaptations or the borrowing of traits from another culture. This ethnography of an immigrant family, included participant observation of two family events and oral life history of each individual from different generations. The study concludes that acclimation for an immigrant of color is based upon the individual’s characteristics: gender, class, physical appearance, etc., which creates different outcomes for each person. Further research is needed to explore organizations that work with immigrants to combat or enhances the experiences in acclimation.

Advisor

Patch, Kathryn

Department

Sociology and Anthropology

Disciplines

Social and Cultural Anthropology

Keywords

Haitian Immigrants, United States, identity, assimilation, acclimation

Publication Date

2016

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2016 Paris Jerome