The Phenomenological Experience of Deportation Upon Family Members

Abstract

There are over 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the United States. Given the ongoing polarized debate about immigration reform, this phenomenological study undertook the exploration of the impact of deportation upon family members. This study examined in-depth the lives of six Latinos as they continued life in the United States after their loved ones were repatriated to Mexico. The research demonstrated themes experienced by all participants several years after the deportation had occurred: a) Increased emotional, physical, and/or financial stress upon family members left behind, b) Increased deportee’s dependence on family members left behind for survival, c) Reorganization of family roles, d) Deteriorating relationships between family members and deportees, e) Tremendous fear and concern for well being of deportee, f) Increased physical, emotional, and/or financial stress upon deportee, and g) Ongoing and unfinished grief for all family members. Implications for clinical practice and research were offered.