Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this ethnographic study was to describe the personal constructs for 1.5-generation Iranian American women professionals who came to the United States between 1978 and 1985 as a result of the Islamic Revolution between ages 4 and 11. The 1.5-generation is the group who does not fully belong to either culture. Methodology: Five participants were engaged through recommendations by cultural organizations in Southern California. Each of the 5 participants was contacted during an initial interview to ensure eligibility and willingness to participate in the study. A second interview was scheduled to address the research questions. Once the data were collected, follow-up interviews were scheduled as necessary. All interviews were transcribed; data from the transcripts were coded and analyzed. As each participant's story unfolded, participants were asked to verify the accuracy. Findings: All 5 women had the experience of coming to the United States between ages 4 and 11 and beginning the acculturation process; though they had this in common, they each interpreted their experience in determining their identity differently. Throughout the process of developing their identity, family played an integral role. The families maintained an Iranian culture within the home despite the environment they lived in. Conclusions: The experiences of being a 1.5-generation Iranian American woman professional and watching parents' struggles generated a need to work hard and focus on success. Recommendations: Further research is advised: A comparative study of the differences between cultural acculturation and coming of age. Also, it is recommended that the study be replicated with a greater number of subjects in a greater number of administrative and academic positions.