Date of Award:

8-2025

Document Type:

Dissertation

Degree Name:

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department:

Psychology

Committee Chair(s)

Melanie M. Domenech Rodríguez

Committee

Melanie M. Domenech Rodríguez

Committee

Aryn Dotterer

Committee

Renee Galliher

Committee

Colby Tofel-Grehl

Committee

Sara Boghosian

Abstract

Documentation status affects not just individuals, but entire family units. This project shares the voices of Undocumented Individuals and their Loved Ones (UnLOs), specifically Latine parents navigating multiple, overlapping stressors. Data was collected during a particularly challenging time marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and threats to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Participants shared how they cope with stress, who they rely on for social support, how they practice wellness, and the type of community programming they would like to see more of. This research was possible through the collaboration between the Latinx Immigrant Health Alliance (LIHA) and United We Dream (UWD). LIHA is a group of scholars that focus on researching immigrant mental health to inform policy, and UWD is the largest immigrant youth-led network in the country. This dissertation, comprised of two studies, used a subset of the data, specifically focusing on those that identified as Latine and parents. The first study focused on how Latine UnLO parents coped with stress and who they relied on for social support. Many reported using acceptance, active coping, and positive reframing. Results also found that denial, substance use, and venting were associated with an increase in psychological distress. The second study explored how Latine UnLO parents practiced wellness, and if the number of wellness practices were associated with changes in psychological distress. Some of the most common wellness practices endorsed included physical activity, nutrition, and meditation. Results showed that the number of wellness practices had no significant relationship to psychological distress. However, participants expressed wanting to see more wellness programming from United We Dream, specifically around physical activity and nutrition. This research aimed to tell a story that highlights the strength and resilience of Latine UnLO parents, who continue to care for themselves and others, despite the policies and systems that often make life harder. As immigration debates and anti-immigrant attitudes continue in 2025, these findings serve as a reminder of what Latine UnLO parents have already done to survive, and how organizations can show up and support this community.

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