Citation

Dillon M, Walsh CA. J. Comp. Fam. Stud. 2012; 43(6): 871-902.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, University Of Calgary - Department Of Sociology)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

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Abstract

The Caribbean region has high levels of migration, yet limited research exists on the effects of parental migration on children left behind. We searched electronic databases, websites and grey literature and found 20 studies examining the experiences of Caribbean children left behind as a result of migrating parents. Left-behind children of migrants are more likely to experience emotional distress and negative effects of the breakdown of family structures and relationships than those in non-migrant households, with evidence being mixed for the effects on education and health. For children who eventually migrate, the resettlement process compounds the impacts experienced in the home country.

RESULTS should be interpreted cautiously since quantitative investigations comprise single studies on a limited number of variables within selected populations. Challenges in qualitative investigations include underrepresentation of males and inability to fully capture participants' experiences prior to resettling. More research is required on the impact of gender differences of the migrating parent and gender-specific responses of children. KW: Juvenile justice; Juvenile delinquency;

Language: en