Read the “Stages of Displacement – The Immigration Experience of Latinos” article found below for context. Respond to the 2 post below. Reply must be at least 150 words to each post and must add to substance.***
1.) Stage one: Seeking Opportunity
There are five stages of displacement presented by the writers within the immigration experience of Latinos. The first of which, is that of seeking opportunities. One of the primary themes was the ideal of having the opportunity to make life the way you want it to be, (Serrata, C & Fischer, J, 2013). I believe this to be true for any American citizen. As long as the desire is legal and isn’t beyond that which is realistic, it can be achieved through wisdom, discipline and diligence. The process of transition can be grueling, but the products can be better than the procedures. According to the information gathered, one research showed how assimilation differed due to factors such as age, gender, level of education etc., (Berry, 2001). I would handle this mindset of searching for opportunities with first, my personal, related struggles, and then my testimony of gaining favor in spite of certain perceived disqualification, then help them throughout a step by step application of their passion. This would also involve getting the necessary certifications to fulfill the desire.
Stage two: Emotional Reactions
One of the themes discussed in this stage is anxiety over adjusting to new surroundings. Moving out of a place of familiarity to uncharted territory is complex. To do certain things for the first time that were never required before, can be daunting. According to the research, it was reported that one confessed to experiencing anxiety over adjusting to the new lifestyle and learning to drive, (Serrata & Fischer, 2013). The way that I would guide this client, would be to reveal to them as much positivity within the culture as possible as well as the positive effects of engagement. I have to show a great degree of sensitivity toward their acclamation process while helping to reduce the fear of the unknown by placing them in as many situations of acceptance as possible.
Stage three: Adjustment
The theme that I noticed to be prevalent in this stage was in the males experiencing the change of becoming less family oriented. According to the research, one participant confessed to becoming “less family oriented,” (Serrata & Fischer, 2013). The contrast was made as far as having limited family gatherings while in the U.S. as opposed to in Mexico. The way that I would handle clients with this reality would be to show them the need for balance in relationships. Sometimes a degree of space can get more things done that could be be more beneficial to the relationships when they do gather. I would show them that sometimes a degree of distance can can actually bring them closer together.
Stage four: Rationalization
One form of rationale that it was reported to be used was that of ” a better life for children,” (Serrata & Fischer, 2013). The idea is making a sacrifice for the children’s sake. The way in which I would approach this is to reassure them of the unselfish motivating factor of their children’s well-being. I would also show them the long-term benefits of their sacrifice. Bilingual people can be a valuable asset.
Stage five: Acknowledgement
One of the themes in this stage is that of no real acceptance, just acknowledging the changes. The changes are just tolerated. There is no true joy, just condoning the actuality. In this case, I would stress the need for contentment. I would go about this with discretion and sensitivity. I would have to also warn them not to make an idol out themselves or even self-medicate with their own personal sacrifice. This can become a dangerous mindset. Also, to focus on the good aspects of the transition is easier said than done, but very possible. Paul said, ” For I have learned, in whatever state I am, therewith to be content,” (King James Bible, 1988. Philippians 4:11).
2.)
Seeking Opportunities
One theme that has been noted of Latino immigrants seeking opportunities in the United States is that they often feel alienated. Feelings of inferiority, experiencing discrimination, or being called derogatory names that cause the person sense that they somehow stand out, are all contributing factors to the theme of alienation (Serrata & Fischer, 2013). As a counsellor, I would ensure to empathetically listen to their experiences and feelings, and then provide encouragement by helping them to develop a sense of self-worth and confidence so that they can find new opportunities and begin to adjust to a new life in a new country. By doing this the client will feel respected as a person and cared for, which will build trust in the therapeutic relationship.
Emotional Reactions
Anxiety is a common emotional reaction, as the immigrant Latino is suddenly in an unfamiliar place and may have never been exposed to American culture before (Serrata & Fischer, 2013). New situations, people and a different primary language among those around them can be very disconcerting. In sessions with this client, perhaps I would ask them questions about their country and culture or ask them to teach me some phrases in their language to help them feel comfortable.
Adjustment
Role changes can be an enormous adjustment. For female Latinos, learning how to drive in the U.S. is not something they would have done in Mexico, and in becoming more independent by having a job or going to school, they are giving up the full-time care-giving role they were used to (Serrata & Fischer, 2013). Giving them reassurance that they do not have to adjust on their own can bring relief, and I could answer questions they may have regarding these new roles.
Rationalization
The transition of moving to a new country is often accompanied by grief and loss, and one way that Latinos may deal with this is by rationalizing that their reason for coming was to give their children a better life (Serrata & Fischer, 2013). As their counsellor, I would help them to acknowledge and work through their grief and loss.
Acknowledgement
In this stage, the reality of the way life is for them now is accepted, but this does not mean that the person feels happy about it (Serrata & Fischer, 2013). I would help the client to explore ideas of what might bring them joy in their new home and encourage them to engage in these things.
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