The role of ethnic enclaves in Arab American Muslim adolescent perceived discrimination

This study aimed to investigate the role of ethnic enclaves in perceived discrimination among Arab American adolescents. Little research has investigated what specific risk and protective factors play a role in perceived discrimination within ethnic enclaves; and which of these factors may be the most salient to Arab American adolescents. The study used a phenomenological approach, using semi-structured interviews, journals, and parent interviews to collect and triangulate the data. Member checking and peer debriefing were also used to check for validity. A 'protective' theme, described as 'living in a bubble' and two 'risk' themes described as 'cracks' (i.e., within-group discrimination) and 'pores' (i.e., online discrimination) were identified. Although ethnic enclaves appeared to protect adolescents from out-group discrimination, it also appeared to be porous, with risk factors, such as online discrimination, 'seeping' into the community.