
Optimism and the American Dream: Latino Perspectives on Opportunities and Challenges Toward Reaching Personal and Family Goals
Trends in positive psychology suggest optimism is an important trait related to happiness and well-being and that through the teaching of optimism, well-being can be enhanced (Sin & Lyubomirsky, 2009). The purpose of this study was to identify areas of optimism within the context of the American Dream among Hispanic/Latino/as and to understand factors that create barriers to having an optimistic outlook on achieving the American Dream. Data for this study came from research designed to identify sources of acculturation related stress among Hispanic/Latino/as. A sample (n = 93) of Hispanic/Latino/a adults were recruited for focus groups in California and Massachusetts. Results indicate that participants were optimistic in achieving their dreams, which included financial achievements, ownership, educational opportunities, and more. Some participants acknowledged that these expectations were unrealistic and were challenged by discrimination, limited skills, and lack of legal documentation status. Studies of psychological interventions that foster optimism among Hispanic/Latino/as are needed.
Duke Scholars
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Related Subject Headings
- General Psychology & Cognitive Sciences
- 5205 Social and personality psychology
- 5203 Clinical and health psychology
- 5201 Applied and developmental psychology
- 1702 Cognitive Sciences
- 1701 Psychology
Citation

Published In
DOI
EISSN
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Related Subject Headings
- General Psychology & Cognitive Sciences
- 5205 Social and personality psychology
- 5203 Clinical and health psychology
- 5201 Applied and developmental psychology
- 1702 Cognitive Sciences
- 1701 Psychology