Doctoral Dissertation Research: Ethnic Niches, Pathway to Economic Incorporation or Exploitation?: Labor Market Experiences of Latina/os

Texas A&M Research Foundation, College Station TX

Investigators

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the causes and earnings outcomes of employment in ethnic niches among the Latino population in Boston and Los Angeles. Data from the Multi-City Study of Urban Inequality will be used because this survey identifies the ethnic backgrounds of the respondents' coworkers and supervisor. In addition to the usual human capital variables as determinants of employment and earnings (e.g., education, English fluency), the study will focus on nativity, skin color, national origin, and gender. The research will also investigate the role of job search strategies that use informal networks of family and friends as an explanation for how Latinos and especially Latinas end up employed in ethnic niches.