When something's gotta give: shifts and stability in parenting among migrants in four Filipino-American communities

Abstract

Parenting in the context of migration involves navigating competing socialization norms between one’s receiving community and those from one’s natal home. Although research shows that parenting acculturates to some degree after migration, the complexity of this process has not been adequately explored such as how some parenting domains shift more readily than others and how migrant parents deal with incongruences. This study examined shifts and stability in parenting beliefs and practices among Filipino migrants in four communities in the United States with varying levels of co-ethnic density. Drawing from indigenous Filipino psychology methods, findings reveal the adaptive nature of parenting, with some domains shifting to better match norms in receiving communities. Findings also highlight the powerful force that culturally embedded beliefs impose on socialization, with most parenting goals and practices continuing to reflect natal notions. Regardless of community, respondents reported stresses around migrant parenting and various strategies to cope with competing childrearing notions