An Exploration of the Ego Networks of Latinxs With Dis/abilities at One Hispanic-Serving Institution

• In Event: Looking Beyond the Designation: Advancing Research on Hispanic-Serving Institutions

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the social support networks of Latinx students with dis/abilities at one Hispanic Serving Institution (Robles Private University; RPU) using critical ego network analysis. The study revealed that Latinx students with dis/abilities have unique social support needs and seek support that considers their multiply minoritized identities simultaneously and explicitly recognizes their educational needs and lived experience. Study participants exhibited a high level of ethnoracial homophily; regardless of relationship category, participants sought support from Latinx individuals. The results suggest that ego network density and indirect connections may be valuable to understandings of social support. This study advocates for a collective responsibility for supporting Latinxs with dis/abilities in holistic, humanizing, decolonizing ways.

Author

• Emily Rose Koren, University of Southern California
  Presenting Author