Journal of Comparative Family Studies
Volume 39, Issue 2, 2008, Pages 187-205+ii+vi+xii

"I hardly understand english, but...": Mexican origin fathers describe their commitment as fathers despite the challenges of immigration (Article)

Bennke A.O. , Taylor B.A. , Parra-Cardona J.R.
  • a Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7605, Raleigh, NC 27695-7605, United States, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, North Carolina State University, United States
  • b Department of Counseling and School Psychology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Dr., San Diego, CA 92182, United States, Department of Counseling, School Psychology, San Diego State University, United States
  • c 3-D Human Ecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States, 3 D Human Ecology, Michigan State University, United States

Abstract

Interviews with 19 Mexican origin fathers in two parts of the United States examined how these men describe their parenting practices and give meaning to their involvement with their children. A grounded theory approach guided by ecological theory revealed salient themes, which included immigration, parental involvement, discipline, decision-making, parenting roles and relationships with their children. Present findings described the important ways in which the experience of immigration influences the fathering experiences of Mexican origin fathers. Such findings challenge traditional stereotypes that depict Mexican origin fathers as uninvolved and emotionally unavailable. In addition, data from this study illustrate that despite the challenges of fathering in the face of immigration challenges, fathers in this sample remain highly committed to their children and their families. Overall, results showed that cultural changes related to immigration were multidimensional and that both social and cultural variables have unique relations to Mexican immigrant fathering practices.

Author Keywords

Latino Mexican Childrearing Fathers Parenting

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-45149132157&partnerID=40&md5=2a9e473d862799e82a6ab77529876aa5
ISSN: 00472328
Cited by: 27
Original Language: English