Navigating Transnational Separation and Reunification: Resilience in Low-Income Chinese Immigrant Mothers

Abstract

The present study examines the experience of low-income Chinese immigrant mothers managing the reunification process with their young children after a prolonged transnational separation—either due to reverse migration separation (children born in the US but sent to live in China, then returned to the US later) or serial migration (the mother came to the US first, and the children followed years later). Grounded in a feminist family therapy and resilience framework, this qualitative study aims to understand the mothers’ experience through a strength-based perspective and a cultural lens. A phenomenological approach was used in this study to obtain qualitative data from interviews with nine Chinese immigrant mothers. Data were analyzed using the deductive approach of thematic analysis. Results highlighted mothers’ resilience in providing for the families’ needs, utilizing familial and community support, and their strategies to overcome adversities and parenting challenges. The participants demonstrate motivation to improve their children’s well-being by utilizing a range of public, school, and community resources and support from other Chinese parents. Areas where these mothers still needed support were also identified. Lastly, implications for clinical service with Chinese immigrant families are discussed.