“Fue el Amor que nos Sostuvo”: The Relational Strengths of Latine Immigrant Couples

• Published in: The Family journal (Alexandria, Va.) Va.), 2025-01, Vol.33 (1), p.19-30
• Main Authors: Silverio, Nicole, Gutierrez, Daniel, Wester, Kelly L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Clinical medicine; Clinical research; Couples; Cultural theory; Families & family life; Family relations; Immigrants; Immigration; Protective factors; Social support; Sociocultural factors; Stress
• ISSN: 1066-4807; 1552-3950
• DOI: 10.1177/10664807241276203

Family is an important protective factor for Latine immigrants. However, with most of the existing research focusing on overall family relationships, there is a knowledge gap about Latine couples and how their dyadic strengths may also be helpful in the face of immigration-related stressors. Using a Relational Cultural Theory framework, we conducted 16 semistructured interviews to qualitatively examine how eight Latine immigrant couples perceived their relationships positively impacted their immigration experiences. After analyzing over 20 hours of data, five themes emerged: (1) mutual support to overcome challenges and reach goals, (2) open communication based on respect, (3) working together as a team, (4) acceptance and admiration for each other, and (5) loving and being loved as a resource. Findings confirm the presence of significant relational strengths that can be leveraged in the management of immigration-related stressors. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.