Intergenerational trauma and resilience among second-generation Southeast Asian Americans.

Abstract

Using community cultural wealth (Yosso, 2005) as a theoretical model, the authors conducted a qualitative interview study exploring intergenerational trauma, resilience, and emergent cultural strengths among Southeast Asian Americans (SEAAs). There were a total of 15 SEAAs, second-generation, adult participants: five identified as Cambodian Americans, five as Vietnamese Americans, three as Lao Americans, one as Mien American, and one as Hmong American. Grounded theory method and data analysis were used to allow for emergent theory from participants’ lived experiences. The data were coded and analyzed by two researchers and an auditor resulting in five main themes: (a) manifestations of intergenerational trauma, (b) compounding of cultural dissonance, (c) development of bicultural identity, (d) acknowledgment of resilience, and (e) empowerment for self and the collective. Our findings underscore the interrelated experiences of intergenerational trauma, resilience, emergent cultural strengths, and critical consciousness among SEAA participants, as well as a desire to heal through community, social, and vocational engagement. We discuss implications for theory, research, and practice with this understudied community.