Dissertation
Managing transgenerational trauma through schooling: the case of migrant Karen students along the Thai/Myanmar border
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
Sep 2024
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00010751
Abstract
This study explored the impact of transgenerational trauma on the academic resilience of migrant Karen students along the Thai/Myanmar border. The Karen people of Myanmar have endured over 70 years of ethnopolitical conflict, which has resulted in widespread displacement and uncertainty. This study aimed to understand how the traumatic effects of the conflict in Myanmar have influenced the educational experiences of Karen youth who crossed the border into Thailand. This holistic case study explored the educational resilience of Karen students enrolled in a migrant learning center in Mae Sot, Thailand. The study drew largely from resilience theory. It incorporated data from multiple sources, including semi-structured interviews, surveys, and focus groups with students, teachers, and school administration. These methods allowed for a comprehensive look at the lived experiences of Karen students, along with the support structures they have within their educational environment. Initial findings revealed that, due to their traumatic backgrounds, many Karen students face significant cognitive, social-emotional, and academic challenges. Symptoms such as emotional dysregulation, dissociation, and impaired executive functioning are common. Despite these obstacles, some students exhibited remarkable resilience, which was often evidenced by strong community networks, culturally responsive education, and personal coping strategies. This study contributes to the understanding of how transgenerational trauma affects academic resilience in conflict-affected populations. It highlights the critical role of culturally sensitive educational practices along with the importance of fostering resilience in trauma-affected students. The insights gained from this study are intended to inform educators, policymakers, and humanitarian organizations working with displaced and trauma-affected populations. Ultimately, this study aimed to improve the educational outcomes and well-being of Karen migrant students in Thailand.
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Details
- Title
- Managing transgenerational trauma through schooling
- Creators
- Mike Barrett
- Contributors
- Kristy Kelly (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- viii, 186 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Education (1997-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991021906506404721