Accents, Language Discrimination,
Mental Health & Vocational Outcomes
Completed

As of 2019, approximately 68 million people in the US (21.7 %) do not speak English as their first language, with 8.3% of the US population speaking English less than well. This underscores the growing significance of examining the lived experiences and potential barriers faced by linguistic minorities. 

HEAL's current research in this domain delves into the nuanced aspect of individuals in linguistic minorities who speak English with non-native accents. Among many visible identities, one's accent often significantly signifies their ethnic and cultural background and can elicit various reactions and responses from others. The ongoing project explores the lived experiences of college students who speak English with non-native accents and investigates how this experience may impact their psychological health, including aspects such as self-esteem. This project also examines whether speaking with non-native accents influences students' vocational development, encompassing elements like work volition and career adaptability. 

The insights derived from this research illuminate the intricate realities faced by linguistic minorities, wherein one's non-native accent can be a source of both pride and shame, confidence and insecurities regarding future career prospects. By gaining more nuanced insights into the experiences of linguistic minorities, we can design interventions aimed at boosting their resilience in the face of potential biases or discrimination. These interventions could encompass culturally sensitive counseling approaches, workshops on accent empowerment, and support networks to foster a sense of belonging. On the prevention and advocacy fronts, this research highlights the importance of challenging accent-related biases and stereotypes. It calls for raising awareness about the diverse talents and capabilities of linguistic minorities and advocating for policies that promote equal opportunities in education and employment.

Current & Future Research: 

Using a mixed-method approach, HEAL's current research continues to examine whether having an accent increases the risk of experiencing language discrimination and how this may impact one’s physical and psychological pain. Additionally, Dr. Nguyen seeks to design research to explore linguistic minorities' experiences when seeking mental health and counseling services, focusing on potential barriers when working with clinicians for whom English is the first language. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of linguistic minority experiences, foster multicultural awareness, and enhance accessibility to mental health services for this community.