Qualitative critical content analysis of five Belizean young adult short stories: Exploring a diasporic narrative

Through critical content analysis, this qualitative study analyzes five Belizean young adult short stories published between 1997 and 2019 to explore how youth and Belizean culture are represented. Given the limited inclusion of contemporary Belizean literature in Belize's school curricula, this dissertation argues for a more intentional selection of culturally relevant texts that authentically reflect the lived experiences of contemporary Belizean youth. The literature review examines Caribbean and Belizean literature research, focusing on intertextuality, diaspora, and youth lens frameworks. The study engages constructionism as its epistemological stance, intertextuality as a literary theory, and critical content analysis to explore how the selected texts shape and reflect power dynamics within the Belizean sociocultural context and diaspora. The study identifies three central themes within the texts: 1) change often forces individuals to adapt, leading to new skills and perspectives; 2) adult friendships/relationships can provide emotional stability and support, helping youth feel valued and understood, which is essential for their self-esteem and leadership potential; and 3) intertextual dialogue and physical expressions allow for diasporic youth to experience a unique interplay of belonging. The findings uncover the importance of including contemporary Belizean youth literature in secondary classrooms that is more critical of colonialism. Via the study, I propose a framework for selecting texts that affirm the identities and experiences of today's Belizean youth. This research contributes to broader discussions of youth representation, literary inclusion, and culturally relevant education in Belize and the Caribbean.