Peer-reviewed article

Parents' perspectives on trajectories of well-being for immigrant youth from Central America.

Londoño T, Gulbas LE, Zayas LH · 27 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study explored the trajectories of well-being among immigrant youth in the United States using an ecodevelopmental and posttraumatic growth perspective. Immigrant youth were from the Northern Triangle of Central America and had recently been released from immigration family detention in the United States. Through time-ordered matrix thematic analysis of interviews with 15 mothers at baseline and follow-up (N = 30 interviews), the research revealed a complex landscape of challenges and adaptations during resettlement. While initial adverse emotional outcomes were common, these tended to improve over time as families gained stability in the United States. Family structure emerged as crucial, with unified families faring better than those fractured by immigration-related separation. Schools generally provided a protective environment, with mental health service access identified as a key protective factor. Proactive parents sought resources for their children, and social isolation at school was often mitigated by strengthened family relationships. Older children frequently assumed increased responsibilities, contributing to closer family bonds. Spiritual communities played a significant role in helping children cope with resettlement challenges and past migration traumas. The study highlights the intricate interplay of risk and protective factors shaping immigrant youth well-being. Central American immigrant youth demonstrated remarkable resilience, challenging deficit-based perspectives. The research calls for strength-based support systems that validate culturally specific identities, experiences, and skills; create flexible supportive networks; and recognize youths' capacity to transform migration challenges into opportunities for personal growth and resilience. These findings can inform culturally responsive practices, interventions, and policies to better support immigrant youth and families during resettlement. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).