Abstract

International immigration creates economic, demographic, and cultural shifts worldwide. The process of migration entails steps beginning from the decision to migrate, the migration journey and experiences upon arrival to the host country. Factors such as age at time of migration, traditions, and beliefs of those who migrate inform various aspects of their lives, such as parenting practices. Once in the new country, immigrants face various challenges and stressors such as discrimination, acculturation, language barriers and lack of opportunities due to legal status. These stressors are often compounded with existing pre-migration trauma that result in higher risk of mental health concerns for immigrants and their children. More specifically, immigrant mothers face many challenges with various circumstances informed by their legal status, home environment, socioeconomic status, parent cognitions and levels of support. With the influence they can have on our new generations, immigrant mothers are a crucial component in the success of future generations; however, to adequately support them in their efforts, supports need to be culturally relevant and readily available.

The literature states the need to support immigrant mothers as their wellness directly correlates with their child’s wellness and academic achievement. Different repercussions of the immigration process and challenges upon arrival are acknowledged throughout the literature. The literature informed this qualitative study in which semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore the phenomenon of immigrant mothers supporting their children’s academic success. The results of the study can inform educators, community leaders and policymakers in designing adequate supports for immigrant mothers in their efforts to support future generations.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Women immigrants—Mothers; Mental health—Women immigrants; Mental health—Mothers

Date of Award

2024

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Education

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Gabriella Miramontes

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Psychology Commons

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