Date of Submission

Spring 2024

Academic Program

Psychology

Project Advisor 1

Anne O'Dwyer

Abstract/Artist's Statement

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between parental endorsement of the American Dream on young adults’ academic motivations and psychological well-being, with a focus on first- and second-generation Caribbean immigrants. A review of the literature suggests that many immigrant populations in the United States view it as the land of opportunity and upward mobility. These populations also may put pressure on themselves and/or their children to succeed in these ways. For example, Wallace (2023) found that Caribbean students in New York City can identify with the model minority stereotype of academic achievement, and children of Black immigrant parents receive an additional level of distress due to familial expectations towards education (Knight et al., 2016) and education is vital for opportunity and upward mobility (Griffin et al., 2012). The current study explored the relationship between Parental Endorsement of the American Dream Narrative (PEADNS) and extrinsic academic motivations, cultural identity, and parenting style, all on well-being (e.g., stress and anxiety). An online survey was completed by 250 participants—including both Caribbean and non-Caribbean immigrants. Results confirmed that the PEADNS is associated with authoritarian parenting styles, extrinsic academic motivations, and greater levels of stress and anxiety. These findings are discussed in light of the particular experiences of Caribbean immigrant families in the United States and the pressures they and their children experience in achieving success in their new country.

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Open Access

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
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