Graduation Year
2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree
Ph.D.
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Degree Granting Department
Curriculum, Instruction, and Learning
Major Professor
Waynne B. James, Ed.D.
Committee Member
Vonzell Agosto, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Liliana Rodriguez-Campos, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Tony Tan, Ph.D.
Keywords
Adult Learning, Self-directed Learning, Transformative Learning, Veteran Studies
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore how veterans of color learned positive coping strategies to endure the challenges experienced during their transition from active duty. There has been limited research examining the veterans’ of color experiences during their transition from active duty military. The research questions focused on how veterans of color were learning to adjust and cope in response to the adverse experiences they encountered during their transition. The theoretical framework used for this investigation was a combination of Mezirow’s transformative learning theory and adult learning theory.
For this study, seven Black Post 9/11 veterans of African diaspora were interviewed. Seven themes were identified after the analysis. Those themes are Re-Establishing independence, Navigating the Department of Veterans Affairs, Leveraging the community for support, Looking towards the transition, Overcoming the transition tax, Redefining motherhood after active duty, and Embarking on a self-directed journey. Findings from the research questions concluded transition assistance programs were not providing relevant information for veterans, the transition tax that veterans experienced is a burden after leaving active duty, and the important role learning has in re-establishing independence after active duty.
Implications are for multiple community leaders, employers, and government agencies that engage with veterans’ affairs at the federal, state, and local levels such as the Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, and other agencies. This study, utilizing Mezirow’s transformative learning theory and Knowle’s adult learning theory, contributes to the body of research regarding veterans of color, the veteran transition and veteran resilience research.
Scholar Commons Citation
Carpenter, William, "Learning Resilience: Veterans of Color Learning Positive Coping Strategies." (2024). USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/etd/10484