Narratives of Choice: Second-Generation Filipino Americans

This research paper utilizes a phenomenological approach and statistical analyses to investigate the factors influencing sense of agency. The quantitative study reveals that gender and income significantly impact the level of agency, with women and lower-income individuals experiencing a lower sense of agency. Although the relationship between descent from low-income countries and agency did not show statistical significance, most likely due to limited data, income was found to play a significant role. These findings underscore the complexity of the interplay between gender, income, descent, and the sense of agency, highlighting the importance of considering structural violence when examining individual experiences. A qualitative study is then conducted in attempts to address questions surrounding country of descent, delving deeper into the influence of structural violence and cultural norms on choice valuations and the perception of structural barriers. The qualitative research focuses specifically on second-generation Filipino Americans, exploring the experience of choice in context.  Through in-depth semi-structured interviews, the study discovers that while personal fulfillment is highly valued, conflicts arise from parental expectations, cultural traditions, and financial limitations, creating tensions between individual desires and communal expectations. These findings emphasize the significance of understanding and supporting the unique experiences of immigrant children and their families, highlighting the need for improved support systems and culturally competent care.