The meaning of work in the US for two Latino immigrants from Colombia and Mexico.
The purpose of this study was to understand the meaning of work for two Latino adults working in US industry.


METHODS
Two adults from Latin countries who worked in industry participated in a qualitative research design during which data were gathered through interviews, observations, and record reviews.


RESULTS
Workers adapted to the language barrier by limiting socialization at work and during leisure, learning only the English needed to perform the job, and maintaining traditional spiritual and leisure activities outside of work. The financial rewards of working temporarily in the US supported their goals to further their vocations in their home countries.


CONCLUSIONS
Occupational therapists must provide services that recognize the uniqueness of Latino workers who must adapt to challenges in performing work and maintaining valued occupations outside of work.
Dale
Lucinda
L
School of Occupational Therapy, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46277, USA. idale@uindy.edu
Albin
Raeanne
R
Kapolka-Ullom
Shelley
S
Lange
Annjanette
A
McCan
Megan
M
Quaderer
Kacey
K
Shaffer
Nikki
N
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D003105:Colombia / Q000208:ethnology; D004641:Emigration and Immigration; D004651:Employment / Q000523:psychology*; D006630:Hispanic or Latino / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008800:Mexico / Q000208:ethnology; D012917:Social Adjustment; D014481:United States