School of Social Work Faculty Publications
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-12-2026
Abstract
This study explored the parenting experiences of formerly detained immigrant mothers in the United States. Using a grounded theory approach, we conducted interviews with 15 mothers from the Northern Triangle of Central America. Mothers described how their wellbeing, parenting practices, and family dynamics were shaped by migration. They reported distress over migration hardships and current stressors, yet their determination to build a better future for their children fostered resilience. Social support mitigated stress, enhanced parenting competence, and improved communication. Parenting practices varied across families. Many mothers adopted the role of la asesora, the advisor who guides, teaches, and counsels children as they navigate new risks in the United States. This study demonstrates how migration, detention, and resettlement shape mother–child relationships, highlighting mothers’ strengths in maintaining positive bonds despite adversity and the need for comprehensive support during resettlement.
Recommended Citation
Londoño, T., González Villanueva, E., Gulbas, L. E., & Zayas, L. H. (2026). Parenting Experiences of Formerly Detained Immigrant Mothers From the Northern Triangle of Central America in the United States. Families in Society, 10443894261468825. https://doi.org/10.1177/10443894261468825
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Publication Title
Families in Society
DOI
10.1177/10443894261468825
Comments
© The Author(s) 2026. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) which permits any use, reproduction and distribution of the work without further permission provided the original work is attributed as specified on the SAGE and Open Access pages