DOI

https://doi.org/10.25772/2N4P-G280

Defense Date

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Counseling Psychology

First Advisor

Oswaldo Moreno

Abstract

Oppressive systems (e.g., colonialism, racism, capitalism) create a disparate distribution of power that, through various mechanisms, negatively impacts the health and well-being of members of the oppressed group. Boricuas have experienced over 500 years of oppression, with the island currently maintaining a colonial relationship with the United States. As these adverse effects of oppression are identified, the need for protective factors (e.g., hope) has emerged. This study explored how islander Boricuas practice radical hope, understand their history of oppression and resistance, and how they perceived it to impact their overall well-being. Utilizing a phenomenological qualitative approach, I conducted 15 semi-structured interviews with Boricuas living on the island. Then, I used thematic analysis with an abductive approach to analyze the transcripts, guided by the radical hope framework. Findings revealed several themes around five overarching qualitative research questions in the area of: (1) understanding the island’s history of colonial and governmental oppression and islander Boricuas’ resistance to internalized inferiority and through activism, (2) recognizing the impact of oppression across psychological, physical, economic, educational, and collective well-being domains, (3) embracing ancestral pride through familial and cultural pride, (4) envisioning future possibilities for Puerto Rico through seeking knowledge, being open to change, and asking for governmental reform, and (5) meaning-making and purpose through positively impacting others and intentional rootedness.

Rights

© Natalia Gómez Giuliani

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

5-14-2025

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