Relational tensions, narrative, and materiality: intergenerational communication in families with undocumented immigrant parents

This research explores the competing discourses and relational tensions that emerge in intergenerational communication in immigrant families with undocumented parents through in-depth interviews with undocumented Latino/a parents and their children living in New York City. Through the articulation o...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of Applied Communication Research 2020-03, Vol.48 (2), p.227-247
Main Authors: Bishop, Sarah C., Medved, Caryn E.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Children
critical family and interpersonal communication research
materiality
narrative
Noncitizens
parent-child communication
Parents
Undocumented immigrants
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Summary:This research explores the competing discourses and relational tensions that emerge in intergenerational communication in immigrant families with undocumented parents through in-depth interviews with undocumented Latino/a parents and their children living in New York City. Through the articulation of three themes, we illustrate how material realities affiliated with a lack of legal status incite unique discursive tensions in family relationships that manifest in family narratives. This study lends scholarly insight into the ways undocumented immigrants and their families communicatively navigate their uncertain life terrain through conversation about immigration status, conflicting career dreams, and hybrid cultural values. Using these findings as guidance, we offer practical applications related to communal coping and family advocacy for professionals and volunteers working in immigrant-serving community organizations.
ISSN:0090-9882
1479-5752
DOI:10.1080/00909882.2020.1735646