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.

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