Migration-Related Trauma, Adolescent Development, and Educational Outcomes of Central Americans: A Review of the Literature

• In Event: Thursday Roundtable Session 9:00 am
  In Roundtable Session: Emerging Issues in K–12 Latina/o/x Educational Research (Table 4)

Abstract

In the past decade, there has been a growing number of migrants from Central America, particularly youth who migrated without their parents or guardians. Given the social-political issues that continue to afflict the region, and the prevalence of students in U.S. public schools from Central American backgrounds who have experienced migration-related trauma, it is imperative for educational scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to understand the effects of trauma on this growing population, so that schools can better serve Central American students’ distinct needs. This literature review investigates what is known about how adverse childhood experiences during the migration process of Central American adolescents impact their socio-emotional development and educational experiences. Implications for educational researchers, policymakers, and practitioners are also discussed.

Author

• Jessica Trejos, City University of New York