Graduation Year

2020

Document Type

Honor's Thesis

Degree

Bachelor of Arts

Primary Major

Communication and Media Studies

Primary Minor

English

Second Minor

Graphic Design

Thesis Advisor

Katherine Lewis, PhD

Abstract

This study investigates Filipinx-American identity using contextual understandings of decolonization as a conceptual framework. We will explore some of the long-term consequences of colonization on identity in the Filipinx-American community, including labeling theory’s current psychologies within the community, the formation of certain ideologies, and the attempts to reconcile transgenerational trauma and dismantle negative ideologies within the community. Seven participants were selected through non-probability sampling and were interviewed individually over Zoom video conferencing. Participant interviews revealed five interconnected themes regarding how identity is formed and sustained. Given the complexity of identity, more research is needed to explain other nuances of the Filipinx-American identity.

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