Sociological Analysis

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Pages: 7

The Sociological Effects on Mexican-Origin Students and Discrimination in the United States The Latino population is estimated to be around 52 million in the United States, resulting in 17% of the total population, making it the nation’s largest ethnic or race minority, while concluding Mexicans as the largest subgroup at 64% (U.S. Bureau of Census, 2014). Moreover, the migration of Latinos has created a new issue with the large amount of students in the classroom, especially in bordering towns close to Mexico. Immigrants chose to come to the United States to chase the infamous idea called the American Dream and in hopes to create a new beginning. Unfortunately, the American Dream has come with a price of prejudices, discrimination, and racism …show more content…
However, if it is not managed, motivation to move forward diminishes. For example, cognitive dissonance plays a huge factor on an individual’s emotions after they are discriminated against. It also reduces an individual’s drive of self by having inconsistent thoughts that are related to behavioral decisions (Duff, 2012). Another factor resulted from loss of motivation is internalizing emotions. Internalizing emotions occurs when an individual has difficulty coping with negative emotions. Moreover, perceived discrimination is associated with an increase in adolescent’s internalizing emotions because they do not have the tools needed to overcome discrimination (Ayón, Marsiglia, & Bermudez-Parsai, 2015). Discrimination and rejection makes it difficult for these students to overcome because they may not consider themselves to be different among their peers. Nonetheless, discrimination is accepted within the Mexican-origin community as a part of the immigration experience. Students feel less vulnerable to peer harassment if they are at a school that has ethnic diversity and teachers. Otherwise, if they cannot relate to their peers, they lose a sense of motivation and …show more content…
In addition, creating empathy can create induced roles and understand how discrimination affects an individual. Education can bring a positive ethnic identity, and developing effective coping strategies (Flores et al., 2010). It also encourages critical thinking, increase contact, and create support for the minority group. With the help of parental, community, and social support, resiliency against discrimination can be diminished. Programs should be implemented to promote youth’s wellbeing that addresses issues of prejudices and racism. They also need a safe environment to discuss issues and create tools to deal with discrimination. In conclusion, the community needs to create a way to increase awareness and combat oppressive practices for accepting diversity. By providing awareness through education, Mexican-origin students can avoid discrimination that effects their education, mental health, relationships, and motivation to succeed. Discriminatory behaviors among a minority can be avoided in the school setting by providing acceptance among the educators, which influences students’ GPA. As for mental health, providing a place where a student can discuss their issues with discrimination can reduce stress levels that lead to depression. Furthermore, social support among the community will help build a healthy association with minorities without the