Toward a dynamic conceptualization of social ties and context: implications for understanding immigrant and Latino health.
Researchers have posited that social ties and social support may contribute to better-than-expected health outcomes among Mexican immigrants vis-à-vis their US-born counterparts. However, in our review of studies examining social ties and health by immigration-related variables among this group, we found little support for this hypothesis. To better understand the social factors that contribute to the health of Mexicans in the United States, we conducted a qualitative analysis of social relationships and social context among first- and second-generation Mexican women. Our results highlight the interplay between immigration processes and social ties, draw attention to the importance of identity support and transnational social relationships, and suggest ways to reconceptualize the relationship between social contexts, social ties, and immigrant and Latino health.
Viruell-Fuentes
Edna A
EA
Latina/Latino Studies Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 510 E Chalmers St MC-495, Champaign, IL 61820, USA. eviruell@illinois.edu
Schulz
Amy J
AJ
D054242:Emigrants and Immigrants; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006630:Hispanic or Latino; D006801:Humans; D017058:Mexican Americans; D008824:Michigan; D012924:Social Conditions; D012944:Social Support; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors