The Effects of Undocumented Status on Families Residing in New Haven, Connecticut

Document Type

Thesis

Summary Description

The study investigates the experiences of undocumented Hispanic families living in New Haven, Connecticut, focusing on why they immigrate and the challenges they face. Through interviews with four undocumented mothers, the research highlights financial instability in their home countries, language barriers, and limited involvement in their children's education as primary issues. These families encounter difficulties accessing resources, such as special education and healthcare, exacerbated by language barriers, and face systemic discrimination, impacting their overall well-being and integration into the community. The findings aim to inform social work practice and advocacy efforts to support undocumented families.

Abstract

This study conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with Hispanic parents who are undocumented and are residents in the city of New Haven, CT in order to better understand the stories and first-hand struggles of families with undocumented status. Specifically, this study asks why undocumented immigrant families live in New Haven and what motivating factors contribute to Hispanic immigrants’ decisions to leave their countries of origin, and families, to come to the USA. Existing research describes the psychosocial challenges of undocumented parents and children residing in USA. These interviews focused on the lives of four Hispanic mothers. The interview guide consists of a list of open-ended questions. Participants were interviewed by the investigator utilized the open-ended interview guide and wrote each answer on the interview guide. Thematic analysis was used to organize and understand data. Participants described their experiences as undocumented status immigrants residing in New Haven in terms of how they were treated in their communities and children’s schools as well as in their access to community resources and medical care.

Supporting Teacher/Faculty Member

Todd Rofuth

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