Journal of Latinx Psychology, Vol 13(2), May 2025, 134-147; doi:10.1037/lat0000270
The Latinx immigrant population in the United States faces significant health and mental health disparities, which were further exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Latinx immigrants who had the responsibility of caring for young children encountered substantial obstacles as they navigated the complexities of multiple roles. In an effort to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on Latinx immigrant caregivers, we collected quantitative and qualitative data from 35 Latinx immigrant caregivers from diverse Latin American countries. Data were collected remotely between August and December 2020. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data from semistructured interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Most participants identified as female, with an average age of 37.8 years. The participants represented nine Latin American countries and one U.S. territory (i.e., Puerto Rico). The results indicated that 31% of participants had mild symptoms of depression, and 29% had mild symptoms of anxiety, with an additional 11% having moderate anxiety symptoms. We identified the following four themes: (a) Extreme fear of contracting COVID-19 increased precautionary measures, (b) the interconnection between immigration and COVID-19 amplified the fear experienced by Latinx immigrant caregivers, (c) government assistance did not take into account the needs of immigrant families, and (d) transnational lives provided an emotional oasis while also heightened distress due to physical separation. The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for policies and social support programs that consider the unique circumstances of immigrant families, particularly those without legal residency. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)