correction

Assessing the Relationship Between Illegal Immigration, Drug Trafficking, and an Open

Border.

Dissertation Proposal

Submitted to Northcentral University

School of Business

in Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Degree of

DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

by

HIBA AL MEHDI

San Deigo, California

September 2022

Acknowledgments

Begin writing here…

i

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction....................................................................................................................1

Statement of the Problem.................................................................................................................3

Purpose of the Study........................................................................................................................4

Introduction to Theoretical Framework ..........................................................................................5

Introduction to Research Methodology and Design........................................................................6

Research Questions..........................................................................................................................9

Significance of the Study...............................................................................................................10

Definitions of Key Terms..............................................................................................................10

Summary........................................................................................................................................11

Chapter 2: Literature Review.........................................................................................................12

Theoretical or Conceptual Framework .........................................................................................12

Subtopic ........................................................................................................................................13

Summary........................................................................................................................................13

Chapter 3: Research Method.........................................................................................................15

Research Methodology and Design...............................................................................................15

Population and Sample..................................................................................................................15

Materials or Instrumentation..........................................................................................................16

Operational Definitions of Variables ............................................................................................17

Study Procedures...........................................................................................................................18

Data Analysis.................................................................................................................................18

Assumptions..................................................................................................................................19

Limitations.....................................................................................................................................19

Delimitations..................................................................................................................................19

Ethical Assurances.........................................................................................................................20

ii

Summary........................................................................................................................................20

Chapter 4: Findings........................................................................................................................21

XXX of the Data............................................................................................................................21

Results............................................................................................................................................22

Evaluation of the Findings.............................................................................................................23

Summary........................................................................................................................................23

Chapter 5: Implications, Recommendations, and Conclusions.....................................................24

Implications...................................................................................................................................24

Recommendations for Practice......................................................................................................25

Recommendations for Future Research.........................................................................................25

Conclusions....................................................................................................................................25

References......................................................................................................................................27

Appendix A Cross-border drug trafficking cases nearly doubled in four years -E.U. Agency.....31

Appendix B Biden's Open Border Is Fueling the 'Deadliest Drug Epidemic in U.S. History.......32

Appendix C....................................................................................................................................32

Cross-border drug trafficking cases nearly doubled in four years -E.U. Agency……………….31

iii

List of Tables

Begin list of tables here…

iv

List of Figures

Begin list of figures here…

v

1

Chapter 1: Introduction

It is no secret that the United States shares a long and complex history with Mexico,

particularly regarding immigration. In recent years, the issue of illegal immigration has again

come to the forefront of public debates. Many people argue that the country's borders should be

closed to prevent drug trafficking and other criminal activity ( Slack, 2019). However, others

argue that an open border is necessary to allow people to seek a better life for themselves and

their families. However, open borders provide drug traffickers with easy access to bring illegal

drugs into the country. Therefore, it is necessary to research if there is a relationship between

illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and an open border (Inés, 2019). According to Finley &

Esposito (2020), there is no one answer to the question of whether the United States should have

an open border. The issue is complex, and the researcher must consider various factors to allow

future debates and discussions on the topic (Inés, 2019).

A strong connection between illegal immigration, drug smuggling, and an open border

would only exacerbate this problem (Finley & Esposito, 2020).

The current debate surrounding illegal immigration in the United States is highly

polarizing and contentious (Inés, 2019). There is a wide range of opinions and perspectives on

the matter, and the issue is of great importance to the country (Inés, 2019). There is often

reference to illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and an open border in the same breath (Finley

& Esposito (2020). According to Finley & Esposito (2020), there is a very close relationship

between the three. A study by the University of Arizona found that "a 10 percent increase in

border enforcement is associated with a 9 percent decrease in the probability of drug trafficking."

(Davies, 2011, p. 12). A study by the RAND Corporation found that "the relationship between

2

border enforcement and drug trafficking is small and not statistically significant"( pp. 340–345).

In other words, the study found that drug trafficking is not significantly impacted by border

enforcement. According to the Fiscal Year by Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the data

has changed since 2018. There is more illegal border crossing and drug trafficking than ever

before. In the Fiscal Year 2018, CBP booked 4,657 pounds of narcotics, while in the Fiscal year

2021, 4,732 pounds of drugs were booked by CBP. Also, 11,623 non-documented immigrants

entered the borders in 2018, while the number increased in 2021 to 13,883. However, the

available research suggests a strong relationship between the three (Eshkobilov, 2022).

According to Bauder (2017), illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and an open border are

all interconnected issues. Research has shown that illegal immigration and drug trafficking are

strongly linked, with drug trafficking being a significant reason why people choose to migrate

illegally. Illegal immigration is a significant and empirical issue since it affects health care,

education, and food needs (Davis, 2011). The issue of drug trafficking is important since the

open border in 2021 increased drug overdoses, public health, and safety. According to

Eshkobilov (2022), the issue of illegal immigration is important because it challenges traditional

ideas about borders and sovereignty. Every day, 300 people die from drug overdoses, especially

fentanyl illegally smuggled into the U.S. through the open border. According to Cha (2020), the

issue of an open border is important because it challenges the idea of the nation-state as a closed

system.

During the Trump administration, illegal immigration and drug trafficking were critical

priorities, and the border wall was starting to be built. Since 2021, the border has been open, and

drugs and illegal immigrants are flowing into the country. An estimated 11 million

3

undocumented immigrants live in the United States (Meade & Nancy, 2018). Drug trafficking is

at its height, resulting in the highest number of overdoses while the cartels make enormous

profits. An estimated $100 billion of drugs are trafficked annually through the southern border

(Meade & Nancy, 2018).

Statement of the Problem

The problem to be addressed in this study is to research if there is a relationship between

illegal immigration, open border, and drug trafficking. Illegal activities such as drug trafficking

and illegal immigration occur when there is a lack of border control (Cha, 2020). Open borders

affect society, law enforcement, public safety, and the government. It also allows people from

any country to enter the United States without background checks and provides the perfect

environment for terrorism (Choi, 2018). Having an open border will make it easy for criminals

from other nations to enter the United States (Hikmatullo Ogli, 2020). There is a challenge in

controlling movements on an open border when immigration agencies fail to regulate people

entering the country. According to Molobe & Odukoya (2021), increased cases of drug

trafficking occur when people smuggle drugs across an open border, like the southern border

between Mexico and the United States. In FY2021, CBP seized 624,500 pounds of drugs

compared to the fiscal year 2020, the cocaine seizures increased by 68%; Methamphetamine

seizures increased by 7%; Heroin seizures decreased by 6%; Fentanyl seizures increased by

134% (Seagren, 2020).

The open southern borders are a problem because of the lack of policies regulating

immigrants' entry into the country and promoting illegal channels and cartels to traffic

immigrants. In 2021, 1.6 million immigrants crossed the New Mexico border (Hikmatullo Ogli,

4

2020; Gramlich & Scheller, 2021). According to the 2020 statistics, California recorded 879,064

illegal immigrants, Arizona 860,100, Texas 2, 434,899, and New Mexico 11,098 illegal

immigrants that were deported (Trac, 2022).

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this quantitative study is to examine the relationship between open

borders, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration. The methodology will be quantitative with a

case study design. Publicly accessible databases, for example, the United States Customs and

Border Protection (CBP), the Department of Homeland Security, and other peer-reviewed

resources, will be used to generate data. The independent variable will be open borders, while the

dependent variables are illegal immigration and drug trafficking. This data will include

information from California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. The proximity of these states to

the border between the United States and Mexico makes them excellent locations for carrying

out research and gathering data (Goneppanavar et al., 2019).

I will ensure that the data is reliable, valid, and free of bias. The study will use data from

publicly accessible resources. The research will use a theoretical framework and specifically

social theory. Also, some of the publicly accessible resources will be used, including DHS and

CBP databases between 2010 and 2021 from the four states of California, Arizona, New Mexico,

and Texas. Prior to data collection, I will obtain IRB approval for the research. Data will be

analyzed using the SPSS software program. An Analysis of variance (ANOVA) will be

performed to determine the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Based

on the p-value, the researcher will determine whether to accept or reject the null hypotheses. The

findings would represent a significant advance in comprehending the difficulties posed by open

5

borders and the impact that this has on the illegal trafficking of drugs and immigration into the

United States.

Introduction to Theoretical Framework

I will guide the research using a theoretical framework. In particular, the social theory.

The study of social theory focuses on societies' origins, structure, and functioning (Macionis,

2018). Social theory is important in this research because it will help to explain the relationship

between open borders, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration. The key concepts used in this

study are social structure, social change, and social inequality. Social structure refers to how

society is organized (Macionis, 2018). It includes the institutions and relationships that makeup

society. Social change refers to the ways in which society changes over time (Macionis, 2018). It

can be caused by various factors, such as technological innovation, economic change, or political

change. Social inequality refers to the ways in which some people have more power, resources,

or prestige than others (Macionis, 2018).

It can be caused by class, race, or gender factors. The propositions relevant to this study are as

follows:

1) Open borders lead to increased drug trafficking.

2) Open borders lead to increased illegal immigration.

3) Social inequality leads to increased drug trafficking.

4) Social inequality leads to increased illegal immigration.

According to the first proposition, open borders increase drug trafficking. As a result,

drug traffickers can transport drugs more easily across poorly protected borders. It is also stated

in the second proposition that open borders promote illegal immigration. The reason is that

6

illegal immigrants can more easily cross poorly protected borders. Drug trafficking is increased

by social inequality, according to the third proposition. Due to economic disadvantages, people

who turn to drug trafficking to make money are more likely to engage in it. The fourth

proposition states that social inequality leads to increased illegal immigration. The reason is that

economically disadvantaged people are more likely to migrate illegally to find work.

The theoretical framework guided the research decisions by helping to develop the

problem statement, purpose statement, and research questions. The problem statement was

developed by considering the ways in which open borders can lead to increased drug trafficking

and illegal immigration. The purpose statement was developed by considering how the research

could help improve understanding of the problems posed by open borders. The research

questions were developed by considering the key concepts of social structure, social change, and

social inequality. This research also used the theoretical framework to guide the data collection

and analysis. The data collection focuses on gathering data on the relationship between open

borders, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration. The data analysis focused on examining how

social inequality can lead to increased drug trafficking and illegal immigration.

Introduction to Research Methodology and Design

The research method used for the study is the quantitative research method. The term

"quantitative research method" describes an approach to studying social, economic, and

psychological phenomena (Crowe et al., 2017). Quantitative research is distinguished by its

emphasis on collecting numerical data and its application to the generalization of findings across

populations or the explanation of a specific topic. Researchers can perform simple to highly

complex statistical analyses. For instance, it is summarizing the information, illustrating

7

correlations, or comparing different sets of summarized data (Kibuacha, 2021). Quantitative

research is known to approve or disapprove a hypothesis, making it significant to use in this

important research study.

The design for this study will be a case study design. A case study, as opposed to a more

general statistical survey, investigates one specific instance in greater detail (Crowe et al., 2017).

It is a strategy for condensing a vast study domain into a single subject that can be investigated

relatively easily. The case study approach will incorporate data from databases like the United

States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and

other scholarly publications. Data triangulation is a strategy that boosts a study's credibility,

gathering information from separate sources. This strategy ensures that its findings are reliable

(i.e., the degree to which the method is suitable for answering the research questions). The

underlying assumption is that evidence gathered using diverse methods should lead to

comparable findings (Crowe et al., 2017). To guarantee external validity, researchers must use

statistically and demographically accurate data. Therefore, all the data from chosen databases

will be analyzed to ensure that the findings reliably extrapolated to the population

The quantitative methodology and case study design are appropriate in addressing the

research problem to investigate whether there is a correlation between illegal immigration, drug

trafficking, and open borders. The quantitative method would facilitate sourcing numerical data

and promote an accurate generalization of the results. This procedure made significant inferences

about the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data.

Generalize it, and ascertain whether there is any correlation between the variables, thereby

accurately addressing the research problem and purpose. The research ensures that it is

8

conducted according to the quantitative technique requirements that guarantee an accurate

outcome that offers a more significant conclusion. The research would target responding to the

research questions and proving the hypothesis.

The research aims to determine if illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and open borders

are correlated. The case study approach is the best option for the investigation because it collects

a variety of perspectives, in contrast to the singular view obtained from an individual respondent

in surveys or interviews. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the

topic and lessens the likelihood of bias. The enormous data from numerous databases guarantee

correctness and representativeness, ensuring internal and external validity. The quantitative

research approach ensures that the study's aim is deducible from the problem statement and that

the research questions contribute to answering the study's overarching aim (Ratelle et al., 2019).

Alignment is crucial to ensure the research study is well-designed and founded on sound

reasoning.

I will use a purposive sampling method in selecting the databases containing data on drug

trafficking and illegal immigration in those specific states such as California, Texas, New

Mexico, and Arizona. I will also draw data for the study from publicly available sources like

CBP and DHS databases and other scholarly works. The data sourced from the organization was

analyzed to get insight specifically on drug trafficking and illegal immigration, particularly in the

states mentioned above. Kibuacha (2022) suggested that if the target population is considerably

small, it is possible to sample the entire population to acquire an accurate picture and

significantly lessen the uncertainty involved. This strategy will also remove the potential for bias

in sample selection, which is a problem with many studies that use random samples. Before data

9

collection begins, approval from the IRB is required. The researcher will use the SPSS software

to perform the statistical data analysis. To confirm or refute the existence of a correlation

between the dependent and independent variables, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) will be

performed. The p-value will provide the basis for the researcher to decide whether accept or

reject the null hypothesis.

Research Questions

The research evaluates the relationship between illegal immigration, the flow of illicit

drugs, and open borders.

RQ1

To what extent, if any, is there a relationship between illegal immigration, drug

trafficking, and open border?

H1o

There is no statistical significant correlation between illegal immigration, drug

trafficking, and an open border.

H1a

There is a statistically significant relationship between illegal immigration, drug

trafficking, and an open border.

RQ2

To what extent, if any, are open borders promoting terrorism activities?

H10

There is no significant correlation between open borders and the promotion of terrorist

activities

10

H1a

There is statistical significance in the correlation between an open border and the

promotion of terrorism activities.

Significance of the Study

The current debate surrounding illegal immigration in the United States is highly

polarizing and contentious (Inés, 2019). There is a wide range of opinions and perspectives on

the matter, and the issue is of great importance to the country (Inés, 2019).

This research is important, especially for policymakers, to evaluate current information

and the need for immigration policy changes and enforcing drug trafficking. In addition, it

provides an in-depth analysis of illegal immigration and the chain of distribution for illegal drugs

in the United States due to the open borders (Izcara Palacios, 2019).

The findings would represent a significant advance in comprehending the difficulties

posed by open borders and the impact that this has on the illegal trafficking of drugs and

immigration into the United States. This research is important for leaders and practitioners in the

field because it can help them evaluate current information and the need for immigration policy

changes and enforcing drug trafficking. The findings would contribute to the literature by

providing a better understanding of the difficulties posed by open borders and the impact that

this has on the illegal trafficking of drugs and immigration into the United States.

This research is also significant because it can help to inform and shape policy decisions

regarding illegal immigration and drug trafficking. This study's findings may help improve

current policies and procedures related to these issues. In addition, the research could help to

11

raise awareness of the problem of illegal immigration and drug trafficking and the need for

practical solutions to address these challenges.

Definitions of Key Terms

1. Drug trafficking: The illegal trade of drugs.

2. Illegal immigration: This is Immigration that occurs when people enter a country

without the government’s permission or stay in a country longer than their visa allows (Gramlich

& Scheller, 2021).

3. Open borders: A policy with no restrictions on the movement of people between

countries (Davis, 2011).

Summary

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between open borders, drug

trafficking, and illegal immigration. The study will use data from publicly accessible resources,

such as the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Department of

Homeland Security, to generate data. The data will be analyzed using the SPSS software

program. An Analysis of variance (ANOVA) will be performed to determine the relationship

between the dependent and independent variables. Based on the p-value, the researcher will

determine whether to accept or reject the null hypotheses. This research is important, especially

for policymakers, to evaluate current information and the need for immigration policy changes

and enforcing drug trafficking. In addition, it provides an in-depth analysis of illegal immigration

and the chain of distribution for illegal drugs in the United States due to the open borders (Izcara

Palacios, 2019). The findings would represent a significant advance in comprehending the

12

difficulties posed by open borders and the impact that this has on the illegal trafficking of drugs

and immigration into the United States.

Chapter 2: Literature Review

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐Begin with the first sentence of the purpose statement and problem statement that leads

to a brief explanation of the organization of the literature review. Do not simply cut and

paste the Purpose Statement section from Chapter 1.

☐ Provide an overview of the sub-headings in the literature that will be discussed.

☐At the end of this section, indicate the databases accessed and the search engines used.

Discuss all the search parameters, including the search terms and their combinations

(with more detailed search terms located in an appendix, if appropriate), years' range, and

literature types.

☐Devote approximately 30 to 60 pages to this chapter to include citations to at least 50

relevant sources.

Theoretical or Conceptual Framework

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐Describe the guiding theoretical/conceptual framework of the study, including the

definitions of all the concepts, an explanation of the relationships among the concepts,

and a presentation of all the assumptions and propositions.

13

☐Explain the origin and development of the framework. Demonstrate detailed

knowledge of and familiarity with both the historical and the current literature on the

framework.

☐Identify existing research studies that used this framework in a similar way. Mention

alternative frameworks, with a justification of why the selected framework was chosen.

☐ Describe how and why the selected framework relates to the present study and how it

guided the development of the problem statement, purpose statement, and research

questions.

Subtopic

Begin writing here…

Level 3 Heading

Text...

Level 4 Heading. Text...

Checklist:

☐Critically analyze (i.e., note the strengths and weaknesses) and synthesize (i.e.,

integrate) the existing research. Rather than reporting on each study independently,

describe everything known on the topic by reviewing the entire body of work.

☐Present a balanced integrative critical review of the literature, ensuring all points of

view are included. Cover all the important issues with a discussion of areas of

convergence (i.e., agreement) and divergence (i.e., disagreement). Provide potential

explanations for areas of divergence.

☐ Address issues of authority, audience, and/or bias/point of view in the sources used.

14

Summary

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐Briefly restate the key points discussed in the chapter. Review the headings and/or

table of contents to ensure all key points are covered.

☐ Highlight areas of convergence and divergence as well as gaps in the literature that

support the need for the study. This discussion should logically lead to Chapter 3, where

the research methodology and design will be discussed.

15

Chapter 3: Research Method

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Begin with an introduction and restatement of the problem and purpose sentences

verbatim.

☐ Provide a brief overview of the contents of this chapter, including a statement that

identifies the research methodology and design.

Research Methodology and Design

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Describe the research methodology and design. Elaborate upon their appropriateness

in relation to the study problem, purpose, and research questions.

☐ Identify alternative methodologies and designs and indicate why they were determined

to be less appropriate than the ones selected. Do not simply list and describe research

methodologies and designs in general.

Population and Sample

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Describe the population, including the estimated size and relevant characteristics.

☐ Explain why the population is appropriate, given the study problem, purpose, and

research questions.

☐ Describe the sample that will be (proposal) or was (manuscript) obtained.

16

☐ Explain why the sample is appropriate, given the study problem, purpose, and research

questions.

☐Explain the type of sampling used and why it is appropriate for the dissertation

proposal methodology and design.For design. For qualitative studies, evidence must be

presented that saturation will be (proposal) or was (manuscript) reached. For quantitative

studies, a power analysis must be reported to include the parameters (e.g., effect size,

alpha, beta, and number of groups) included, and evidence must be presented that the

minimum required sample size will be (proposal) or was (manuscript) reached.

☐ Describe how the participants will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) recruited (e.g.,

email lists from professional organizations, flyers) and/or the data will be (proposal) or

were (manuscript) obtained (e.g., archived data, public records) with sufficient detail so

the study could be replicated.

Materials or Instrumentation

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Describe the instruments (e.g., tests, questionnaires, observation protocols) that will

be(proposal) or were (manuscript) used, including information on their origin and

evidence of their reliability and validity. OR as applicable, describe the materials to be

used (e.g., lesson plans for interventions, webinars, or archived data, etc.).

☐ Describe in detail any field testing or pilot testing of instruments to include their

results and any subsequent modifications.

17

☐If instruments or materials are used that were developed by another researcher, include

evidence in the appendix that permission was granted to use the instrument(s) and/or

material(s) and refer to that fact and the appendix in this section.

Operational Definitions of Variables

Begin writing here...

XXX

Text…

Checklist:

☐ For quantitative and mixed methods studies, identify how each variable will be

(proposal) or was (manuscript) used in the study. Use terminology appropriate for the

selected statistical test (e.g., independent/dependent, predictor/criterion, mediator,

moderator).

☐ Base the operational definitions on published research and valid and reliable

instruments.

☐ Identify the specific instrument that will be (proposal) or was (manuscript) used to

measure each variable.

☐ Describe the level of measurement of each variable (e.g., nominal, ordinal, interval,

ratio), potential scores for each variable (e.g., the range [0–100] or levels [low, medium,

high]), and data sources. If appropriate, identify what specific scores (e.g., subscale

scores, total scores) will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) included in the analysis and

how they will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) derived (e.g., calculating the sum,

difference, average).

18

Study Procedures

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Describe the exact steps that will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) followed to

collect the data, addressing what data as well as how, when, from where, and from whom

those data will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) collected in enough detail the study

can be replicated.

Data Analysis

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Describe the strategies that will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) used to code and/or

analyze the data, and any software that will be (proposal) or was (manuscript) used.

☐ Ensure the data that will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) analyzed can be used to

answer the research questions and/or test the hypotheses with the ultimate goal of

addressing the identified problem.

☐ Use proper terminology in association with each design/analysis (e.g., independent

variable and dependent variable for an experimental design, predictor and criterion

variables for regression).

☐For quantitative studies, describe the analysis that will be (proposal) or was

(manuscript) used to test each hypothesis. Provide evidence the statistical test chosen is

appropriate to test the hypotheses and the data meet the assumptions of the statistical

tests.

19

☐For qualitative studies, describe how the data will be (proposal) or were (manuscript)

processed and analyzed, including any triangulation efforts. Explain the role of the

researcher.

☐For mixed methods studies, include all of the above.

Assumptions

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Discuss the assumptions along with the corresponding rationale underlying them.

Limitations

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Describe the study limitations.

☐ Discuss the measures taken to mitigate these limitations.

Delimitations

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Describe the study delimitations along with the corresponding rationale underlying

them. An example of delimitations are the conditions and parameters set intentionally by

the researcher or by selection of the population and sample.

☐ Explain how these research decisions relate to the existing literature and

theoretical/conceptual framework, problem statement, purpose statement, and research

questions.

20

Ethical Assurances

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Confirm in a statement the study will (proposal) or did (manuscript) receive approval

from Northcentral University’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) prior to data collection.

☐If the risk to participants is greater than minimal, discuss the relevant ethical issues and

how they will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) addressed.

☐ Describe how confidentiality or anonymity will be (proposal) or was (manuscript)

achieved.

☐ Identify how the data will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) securely stored in

accordance with IRB requirements.

☐ Describe the role of the researcher in the study. Discuss relevant issues, including

biases as well as personal and professional experiences with the topic, problem, or

context. Present the strategies that will be (proposal) or were (manuscript) used to prevent

these biases and experiences from influencing the analysis or findings.

☐ In the dissertation manuscript only, include the IRB approval letter in an appendix.

Summary

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Summarize the key points presented in the chapter.

☐ Logically lead the reader to the next chapter on the findings of the study.

21

Chapter 4: Findings

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐Begin with an introduction and restatement of the problem and purpose sentences

verbatim and the organization of the chapter.

☐ Organize the entire chapter around the research questions/hypotheses.

XXX of the Data

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ For qualitative studies, clearly identify the means by which the trustworthiness of the

data was established. Discuss credibility (e.g., triangulation, member checks),

transferability (e.g., the extent to which the findings are generalizable to other situations),

dependability (e.g., an in-depth description of the methodology and design to allow the

study to be repeated), and confirmability (e.g., the steps to ensure the data and findings

are not due to participant and/or researcher bias).

☐ For quantitative studies, explain the extent to which the data meet the assumptions of

the statistical test and identify any potential factors that might impact the interpretation of

the findings. Provide evidence of the psychometric soundness (i.e., adequate validity and

reliability) of the instruments from the literature as well as in this study (as appropriate).

Do not merely list and describe all the measures of validity and reliability.

☐ Mixed methods studies should include discussions of the trustworthiness of the data as

well as validity and reliability.

22

Results

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Briefly discuss the overall study. Organize the presentation of the results by the

research questions/hypotheses.

☐ Objectively report the results of the analysis without discussion, interpretation, or

speculation.

☐ Provide an overview of the demographic information collected. It can be presented in

a table. Ensure no potentially identifying information is reported.

Research Question 1/Hypothesis

Text…

☐ Report all the results (without discussion) salient to the research question/hypothesis.

Identify common themes or patterns.

☐Use tables and/or figures to report the results as appropriate.

☐ For quantitative studies, report any additional descriptive information as appropriate.

Identify the assumptions of the statistical test and explain how the extent to which the

data met these assumptions was tested. Report any violations and describe how they were

managed as appropriate. Make decisions based on the results of the statistical analysis.

Include relevant test statistics, p values, and effect sizes in accordance with APA

requirements.

☐For qualitative studies,describestudies, describe the steps taken to analyze the data to

explain how the themes and categories were generated. Include thick descriptions of the

23

participants’ experiences. Provide a comprehensive and coherent reconstruction of the

information obtained from all the participants.

☐ For mixed methods studies,includestudies, include all of the above.

Evaluation of the Findings

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Interpret the results in light of the existing research and theoretical or conceptual

framework (as discussed in Chapters 1 and 2). Briefly indicate the extent to which the

results were consistent with existing research and theory.

☐ Organize this discussion by research question/hypothesis.

☐ Do not draw conclusions beyond what can be interpreted directly from the results.

☐ Devote approximately one to two pages to this section.

Summary

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Summarize the key points presented in the chapter.

24

Chapter 5: Implications, Recommendations, and Conclusions

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐Begin with an introduction and restatement of the problem and purpose sentences

verbatim, and a brief review of methodology, design, results, and limitations.

☐ Conclude with a brief overview of the chapter.

Implications

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Organize the discussion around each research question and (when appropriate)

hypothesis individually. Support all the conclusions with one or more findings from the

study.

☐ Discuss any factors that might have influenced the interpretation of the results.

☐ Present the results in the context of the study by describing the extent to which they

address the study problem and purpose and contribute to the existing literature and

framework described in Chapter 2.

☐ Describe the extent to which the results are consistent with existing research and

theory and provide potential explanations for unexpected or divergent results.

☐Identify the most significant implications and consequences of the dissertation (whether

positive and/or negative) to society/desired societal outcomes and distinguish probable

from improbable implications.

25

Research Question 1/Hypothesis

Text…

Recommendations for Practice

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Discuss recommendations for how the findings of the study can be applied to practice

and/or theory. Support all the recommendations with at least one finding from the study

and frame them in the literature from Chapter 2.

☐ Do not overstate the applicability of the findings.

Recommendations for Future Research

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐Based on the framework, findings, and implications, explain what future researchers

might do to learn from and build upon this study. Justify these explanations.

☐ Discuss how future researchers can improve upon this study, given its limitations.

☐ Explain what the next logical step is in this line of research.

Conclusions

Begin writing here…

Checklist:

☐ Provide a strong, concise conclusion to include a summary of the study, the problem

addressed, and the importance of the study.

☐ Present the “take-home message” of the entire study.

26

☐ Emphasize what the results of the study mean with respect to previous research and

either theory (PhD studies) or practice (applied studies).

27

References

Bauder, H. (2017). Perspectives of Open Borders and No Border. Geography Compass, 9(7),395-

405. https://doi.org/10.1111/gec3.12224

Brydges, C. (2019). Effect Size Guidelines, Sample Size Calculations, and Statistical Power in

Gerontology. Innovation In Aging, 3(4). https://doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igz036

Cha, Y. (2020). Rethinking Illegal Immigrants from a Critical Perspective -Whether or not to

Blame Illegal Immigration and the Government Capability to Manage Illegal

Immigration-. Journal of Multi-Cultural Contents Studies, 35, 293-329.

https://doi.org/10.15400/mccs.2020.12.35.293

Choi, S. W. (2018). Does restrictive immigration policy reduce terrorism in Western

democracies? Perspectives on terrorism, 12(4), 14-25.

Crowe, S., Creswell, K., Robertson, A., Huby, G., Avery, A., & Sheikh, A. (2017). The case

study approach. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 11(1).

https://doi.org/10.1186/1771-2298-11-100

Davis, D. E. (2011). Irregular armed forces, shifting patterns of commitment, and fragmented

sovereignty in the developing world. In Contention and trust in cities and

states (pp. 249-265). Springer,

Dordrecht.https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-007-0756-6_17

Eshkobilov, S. (2022). Criminological description of organized crime. The American Journal of

Political Science Law and Criminology, 4(04),

1-6.https://inlibrary.uz/index.php/tajpslc/article/view/6805

28

Fazel-Zarandi, M. M., Feinstein, J. S., & Kaplan, E. H. (2018). The number of undocumented

immigrants in the United States: Estimates based on demographic modeling with data

from 1990 to 2016. PloS one, 13(9), e0201193.

Finley, L., & Esposito, L. (2020). The immigrant as bogeyman: Examining Donald Trump and

the right’s anti-immigrant, anti-PC rhetoric. Humanity & Society, 44(2), 178-

197.https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0160597619832627

Gramlich, J., & Scheller, A. (2021). What is happening at the U.S.-Mexico border in 7 charts?

Pew Research Center. Retrieved 26 August 2022, from

https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/11/09/whats-happening-at-the-u-s-mexico-

border-in-7-charts/

Hikmatullo Ogli, S. (2020). Regional Mechanisms against Illegal Drug Trafficking. The

American Journal of Political Science Law and Criminology, 02(10), 90-95.

https://doi.org/10.37547/tajpslc/volume02issue10-15

Inés Ospina, G. (2019). THE ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION FLOWS TO THE SOUTHERN

BORDER OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. UNISCI Discussion

Papers, (50).https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?

direct=true&profile=ehost&scope=site&authtype=crawler&jrnl=16962206&AN=

142449188&h=dZyOMZBjX8SpAZjAfeWwgLvCMNg3Rs1kjYkR9tNsgHuv55

HF1OpvHKxs%2BNadhZRpXIrLzgMjz3Jh%2Fy7b%2BNveqg%3D%3D&crl=c

Izcara Palacios, S. (2019). Corruption at the Border: Intersections between U.S. Labour

Demands, Border Control, and Human Smuggling Economies. Antipode, 51(4), 1210-

1230. https://doi.org/10.1111/anti.12527

29

Khullar, D., & Chokshi, D. A. (2019). Challenges for immigrant health in the USA—the road to

crisis. The Lancet, 393(10186), 2168-2174.

Kibuacha, F. (2021). How to Determine Sample Size for a Research Study - GeoPoll. GeoPoll.

Retrieved August 22, 2022, from https://www.geopoll.com/blog/sample-size-research/.

Margulies, P. (2019). The Boundaries of Habeas: Due Process, the Suspension Clause, and

Judicial Review of Expedited Removal Under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Geo.

Immigr. L.J., 34, 405.

Meade & Nancy (2018). "The Effect of Border Enforcement on Drug Trafficking into the United

States." The Journal of Law and Economics, vol. 54, no. 2, 2011, pp. 377-

394.https://www.unodc.org/pdf/technical_series_1998-01-01_1.pdf

Miller, R., & Baumeister, S. (2017). Managing Migration: Is border control fundamental to anti-

trafficking and anti-smuggling interventions? Anti-Trafficking Review, (2).

https://doi.org/10.14297/atr.20171321

Molobe, I., & Odukoya, O. (2021). The prevalence of drug use and illicit trafficking: A

descriptive cross-sectional study of irregular migrant returnees in Nigeria. Journal Of

Migration And Health, 3, 100034. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmh.2021.100034

OnaTypicalDayinFiscalYear2018,CBP. Retrieved: https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/stats/cbp-

enforcement-statistics

Ratelle, J., Sawatsky, A., & Beckman, T. (2019). Quantitative Research Methods in Medical

Education. Anesthesiology, 131(1), 23-35.

https://doi.org/10.1097/aln.0000000000002727

30

Seagren, C. W. (2020). U.S. Customs and Border Protection policy routinely violates stated core

values. Available at SSRN 3674321. https://www.cbp.gov/document/stats/nationwide-

drug-seizures

Slack, J. (2019). Deported to death: How drug violence is changing migration on the US–

Mexico border (Vol. 45). University of California Press.

Trac. (2022). Latest Data: Immigration and Customs Enforcement Removals. Trac.syr.edu.

Retrieved 26 August 2022, from https://trac.syr.edu/phptools/immigration/remove/.

31

Appendix A

Cross-border drug trafficking cases nearly doubled in four years -E.U. Agency.

Tosh, S. (2021). Drug Prohibition and The Criminalization of Immigrants: The

compounding of drug war disparities in the United States deportation

regime. International Journal of Drug Policy, 87, 102846.

Retrieved from: Drug prohibition and the criminalization of immigrants: The

compounding of drug war disparities in the United States deportation regime.

Deportations due to drug convictions are only one aspect of the growing "crimmigration

nexus" between the criminal justice system and immigration enforcement agencies. As

illustrated by this article, from 2009-2016, an average of 34,600 noncitizens have deported

annually due to drug charges (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 2017). In

2018, 76,585 noncitizens were seized by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for

drug crimes, second only to those apprehended for DUI (U.S. Immigration and Customs

Enforcement, 2018).

There is much proof and backing for the statements made in the text. There are current

examples and references to research that might help any reader regarding the relationship

that exists between immigration and drug trafficking. The primary sources for this article

come from a year of ethnographic observation of removal procedures in the New York

City immigration court and 39 interviews with immigration attorneys, criminal lawyers,

and activists. Added are summaries of related policies and studies on deportation for drug

offenses.

32

33

Appendix B

Biden's Open Border Is Fueling the 'Deadliest Drug Epidemic in U.S. History.

PRESTON. B. (2021). Biden's Open Border Is Fueling the 'Deadliest Drug Epidemic in

U.S. History. Retrieved from Biden's Open Border Is Fueling the 'Deadliest Drug

Epidemic in U.S. History' – P.J. Media

This article published on the P.J. media illustrates how the US-Mexico border worsened

after Biden's open border policy. The author argues that the open border is helping to

spread lawlessness. Now that the border is open, fentanyl, an opioid, is pouring in. The

article vividly illustrated how the highly addictive and deadly narcotic fentanyl had

flooded the southern border due to the porous border and poor security relations with

Mexico. More than three times as much fentanyl as they did in the same period the year

before was captured by customs officials between October 2020 and March 2021. Since

2019, cartel earnings have skyrocketed thanks to rising demand in the United States. In

2016, illegal narcotics caused the deaths of more than 90,000.

Appendix C

Cross-border drug trafficking cases nearly doubled in four years -E.U. Agency.

Reuters (2021). Cross-border drug trafficking cases nearly doubled in four years -E.U.

Agency. Retrieved from Cross-border drug trafficking cases nearly doubled in four

years -E.U. agency | Reuters

This article published on the Reuters website illustrates how an open border increases the

cases of drug trafficking. According to the article's author, the number of cases involving

transnational drug trafficking almost quadrupled from 279 in 2016 to 562 in 2020,

34

according to a European prosecutor's organization study. Nearly a third of them were new

and synthetic medications. This surprising information was primarily due to the massive

growth in the creation of synthetic substances. Prosecutors in the European Union have a

significant problem responding to the rising volume of synthetic drug manufacture and

sales on the dark web.

The author has clearly illustrated several factors related to the dramatic increase in illegal

immigration. As international commerce has become more integrated, people have more

freedom to travel. The United States has the proper infrastructure and rules for immigrant

entrepreneurs because of its advanced economy.