Document Type
Master's Thesis
Graduation Year
2024
Degree
Master of Science
Program
Counseling Psychology
Program Director
Carlos Molina, EdD, LMFT
First Reader
Carlos Molina, EdD, LMFT
Second Reader
Skye Ashley
Abstract
This thesis project attempts to ascertain the impact of sexual assault on Latine immigrants in the United States with the aid of a literature review and subsequent manual of clinical and sociocultural recommendations. The historical and political background of immigration in the U.S. is discussed, providing a background for the difficulties that Latine immigrants have faced for decades. All facets of immigration are explored, as well as the hostility that many immigrants face due to anti-immigrant sentiment. This combined with the acculturation process proves to have drastic effects on mental health. Sexual assault is then explored, identifying background and statistical information that evidence the vast amount of underreporting of sexual violence in the U.S. and other countries globally. The vulnerabilities of both Latine immigrants and sexual assault survivors are demonstrated to impact the individual intersectionally, causing doubly negative impacts. Such vulnerabilities result in several barriers that Latine immigrant face when attempting to access services for sexual assault support. From this literature, recommendations are made that urge mental health professionals and other social service workers to improve the efficacy of care through cultural considerations, improved equity and inclusivity, and barrier reduction. The author focuses on empowerment and multidisciplinary collaborative care to improve advocacy for clients. This research has future implications for improving social services and therapy practices to provide more inclusivity and appropriate services for this population.