Date of Award
11-2025
Document Type
Capstone Project
Degree Name
Marketing, BSBA
School
SBS
Department
Marketing Department
Faculty Advisor
Gladys Valle, Ed.D
Abstract
Abstract of Research: This study examines 1) how heritage speakers' self-perceived proficiency and fluency in Spanish influence their identity as Latinos, and 2) the generational similarities and differences in their lived experiences. Through surveys and interviews, the relationship between Spanish proficiency and fluency and perceived Latinidad among nine Spanish heritage speakers (with Latin American ancestry) has been assessed. The research suggests that no statistically significant relationship was found between language proficiency or fluency and perceived Latinismo. However, qualitative findings revealed that participants construct their Latino identity based on cultural values, lived experiences, and a sense of belonging rather than language ability alone. Additionally, generational differences emerged, particularly regarding assimilation experiences and language expectations within families. The findings provide a more equitable and inclusive conversation around sociocultural identity and language.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Recommended Citation
Rivera Sandoval, David Alejandro and Valle, Gladys, "Spanish Heritage Speakers and Latinidad: How Spanish Fluency Influences Self-Perceived Latinidad Among Heritage Speakers" (2025). Undergraduate Theses and Capstone Projects. 47.
https://dc.suffolk.edu/undergrad/47