Abstract
BACKGROUND: This is a secondary data analysis of an original study describing the lived experiences of Hispanic/Latinx nursing students as they acculturate into the profession of nursing.
METHOD: The original study described the experiences of 11 Hispanic/Latinx new graduates from three baccalaureate nursing programs in the southeastern United States. A secondary data analysis using a theoretical thematic analytical approach with data gathered in the original study was done to determine the utility of the theory of cultural marginality in understanding these student experiences.
RESULTS: Findings support aspects of the theory, including marginal living, cross-cultural conflict recognition, and adjustment responses of poise and integration. Personal and contextual influences also impact the acculturation process for these nursing students.
CONCLUSION: The theory of cultural marginality is valuable and provides important context for understanding the process that Hispanic/Latinx nursing students experience as they acculturate into nursing.