<span>For the purpose of this research I have conducted four focus groups with a total of twenty four participants in two distinct geographical areas of the US and within two distinct organizations. I was amazed to realize while doing the data coding and data analysis that in the absence of geographical clues it was almost impossible to distinguish the focus groups from each other. How is it possible that such disparate groups of people from different educational and professional backgrounds located in such different social environments have exactly the same experience in the US-based Haitian organization? Why is it that their understanding of the organizational issues are so identical that some are representing the symptoms while others are recommending solutions for the same symptoms? In the following pages my aim is to present the necessary empirical evidence supporting my findings and also to offer additional social science theory to facilitate the understanding of this revealing, and </span><span>complex, social phenomenon. I will first introduce my preliminary conceptual model supported by the theoretical foundations of social and ethnic identities, followed by my research questions as outlined in my research proposal. Then I will continue with the data analysis, presenting my research findings and offering a preliminary interpretation of this data based primarily on Bourdieu’s concept of “habitus”. Finally as a practitioner at heart, I will offer a revised conceptual model with the promise of designing effective management interventions for US-based Haitian organizations. In the following pages is a summary of the findings of my research. After introducing my preliminary conceptual model, I will outline my research methodology including my methods of data analysis. Then, I will offer my understanding of the research findings and conclude with a revised conceptual model supported by recommendations for future research to solidify the model.Doctorate of Management Programs</span>
