Forced immigration-related family separation and adverse childhood experiences: effects on mental health among Latinx immigrant youth in the United States.

INTRODUCTION

First-generation Latinx immigrant youth face risks for experiencing unique immigration-related traumas, which could exacerbate their mental health. This study aimed to investigate the potential influence of forced immigration-related family separation on the association between traditional adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and mental health (i.e., depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms) among Latinx immigrant youth from the Northern Triangle (NT; El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras).

METHODS

Primary surveys assessing forced immigration-related family separation, ACEs, and mental health were administered to a sample of NT immigrant youth (N = 172). Multiple linear regression was conducted to examine the study aim.

RESULTS

In main effects analysis, forced immigration-related family separation was significantly associated with depression (B = 2.11, CI = [0.11, 4.11], p = .039) and PTSD (B = 4.01, CI = [0.63, 7.40], p = .021) symptoms. ACEs were significantly associated with depression (B = 1.34, CI = [0.86, 1.81], p < .001), anxiety (B = 1.05, CI = [0.63, 1.47], p < .001), and PTSD (B = 2.17, CI = [1.37, 2.97], p < .001) symptoms. In moderation effects analysis, the association of ACEs on depression (B = -1.21, CI = [-2.18, -0.25], p = .014), anxiety (B = -1.00, CI = [-1.86, -0.13], p = .024), and PTSD (B = -2.23, CI = [-3.84, -0.62], p = .007) symptoms was significantly attenuated among youth who experienced forced immigration-related family separation.

CONCLUSION

Study findings may underscore the need to consider the inclusivity of immigration-related trauma in ACE assessment tools.