The transnational fathering practices of deported men in El Salvador

Abstract

AbstractDrawing on qualitative research conducted in El Salvador, the author examines the transnational fathering practices of Salvadoran immigrant men who were deported from the United States. By using a transnational fathering practices conceptual model, the author was able to examine the transnational fathering practices of deported men in El Salvador who had children in the U.S. This study revealed the harmful effects of U.S. immigration policies and enforcement practices on Salvadoran transnational families. The author focused on three key areas including deported father's (1) role in providing financially for their transnational families, (2) their efforts in maintaining their transnational family networks, and (3) their communication with transnational family members via information technology. First, Salvadoran fathers in this study shared their experiences attempting to provide financially for their transnational families. Secondly, deported fathers shared their desire to keep their transnational families together, their attempt to restore their strained relationships with their children, and recover from past traumas within their parent‐child relationships. Lastly, Salvadoran fathers reported using technology to communicate with their transnational families. This study provides insight into the issues that transnational fathers and their children experience and the need for new policies to support family reunification efforts.