The Lived Experiences of First Generation Mexican American Women in America

Abstract

Clinical research that examines the lived experiences of first-generation Mexican
American women growing up in America, is a topic that is minimally discussed. As a
professional Latina woman working in the field of clinical psychology, I became
increasingly aware of this unspoken phenomenon through my interactions with other
Latinas in a professional, academic, and clinical capacity. This inspired me to conduct an
Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) study to explore the lived experience of
first generation Mexican American women living in America, and outside of the
traditional Latino cultural norm and gender role of marianismo. This qualitative study
sought to bring healing, cultural, and clinical awareness to the emotional challenges that
many first-generation Latinas face when attempting to navigate and balance life between
two cultures. Participants included five first-generation self identified Latina women
between the ages of 24 and 33 with college degrees and who are of Mexican descent.
Data collection was conducted via semi-structured interviews. The findings of this study
include superordinate themes identified throughout the analysis. This study amplified the
struggles that first-generation Mexican American women are faced with living outside
the cultural norm while adjusting to life between two cultures. The data collected serves
as a valuable tool for understanding and providing clinical treatment to Latina women.