| This study explores the experiences of resilience of Latina transnational mothers. Pre-immigration and post immigration stressors are explored, as well as transnational mothers' strengths and experiences of resilience that helped them get through the challenges of separation. The literature review covers information on Latino families, the Latino immigration history in the United States, as well as literature about the psychological effects of immigration, transnational families, transnational motherhood, coping with ambiguous loss, individual and family resiliency as well as resilience in Latinos.;Eight Latina transnational mothers, who were 18 of age or older, who were living in the US and who had one or more children under age 25 living in their country of origin participated in this study.;The qualitative methodology used to gather data includes a demographic questionnaire and a semi-structured interview, in order to explore their narratives.;Thematic data analysis revealed three important themes regarding pre-immigration stressors and their decision to come to the U.S.: strained financial situations, sociopolitical violence, and domestic violence. Along with stressors, there were common themes related to participants' goals related to their decision to come to the U.S. such as: attaining good and higher education for their children; covering their children's basic needs; and becoming homeowners. In regards to post-immigration stressors, four overarching themes were found: Loss, guilt and regret, fear of their future relationships with their children, and dilemmas about when to be reunited with their children. Finally, five overarching themes related to their resilience were found: Spirituality, responsibility and commitment with their children, support network that includes family, friends and psychotherapy; work and being valued at work, and identifying their own strengths.;Latina transnational mothers experiences of separation are filled with painful feelings of loss and uncertainty about their future. However, they are able to move forward mainly by relying in their religious and spiritual beliefs as well as in their cultural values around family. Their conviction and commitment to help their children and their families to get out of poverty and have a better future are powerful reasons that helps them to move forward. |
