The Unrecognized Social Stressors of Migration and Reunification in Caribbean Families

Abstract

Black Caribbean parents often immigrate in order to increase their fortune and improve opportunities for themselves and their families. Frequently, they leave their children in their country of origin, to be raised by family members. Reunification with their children often occurs at the time of adolescence and, for a multitude of reasons, is often fraught with conflict which sometimes necessitates the involvement of social services and other agencies. Some reasons for these difficulties are presented and are illustrated through the use of case histories. Mental health professionals are advised to take societal and cultural factors into consideration when creating treatment plans for this population.