Family Separation Planning Among Undocumented Latina Immigrant Parents With U.S. Citizen Children

Abstract

Nearly one in five U.S. citizen children has an undocumented parent, putting many at risk of family separation due to deportation. To protect their children’s future, some parents assign legal guardians, yet limited research exists on this process. This study used a qualitative design with in-depth interviews with 27 Latina parents, all of whom had assigned guardians for their children. The results revealed parents’ prolonged exposure to trauma before, during, and after migration led to a persistent fear of deportation and family separation. Parents evaluated guardians based on trustworthiness, reliability, and ability to navigate complex systems. The findings highlight the need for social workers to educate families, collaborate with community organizations, and advocate for policies prioritizing family reunification and children’s well-being.