<p>The role of mothering has always been an important area for study in nursing. However, transnational mothering, the experience of women mothering from afar, has not been well studied in the discipline. The purpose of this study was to explore the process of mothering by Mexican women in the context of their move to the United States. The conceptual framework of symbolic interaction and the methodology of grounded theory (Glaser & Strauss, 1967) were used to guide the study. </p><p> Data were collected through 13 semi-structured interviews of women from Mexico living in New York City who had at least one child under the age of 16 still living in Mexico. The results indicated that the process of transnational mothering was non-linear. Phases emerged from data analysis using Grounded Theory Methods of constant comparative analysis of transcripts, using coding, categorizing, and conceptualizing. Three final phases, each with sub categories, which explained the process of transnational mothering included <i>reconceptualizing mothering, struggling,</i> and <i>embracing</i> hope. </p><p> <i>Reconceptualizing</i> mothering was used to name this substantive theory that emerged. The Basic Social Process identified that fit the substantive theory that emerged was "social identity" as social identity is affected by a new understanding of one's role. The women in this study acknowledged the poor fit of their traditional roles of mothering in New York and therefore created new roles. The community that they developed and relied upon assisted with this new role adjustment. Implications for this study in the area of practice include the need for greater client advocacy and assisting transnational mothers to build and foster a community. The importance of the discipline's involvement in the area of health policy cannot be overstated as policies affecting mother child separation and reunification need a nursing voice. </p>
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:PROQUEST/oai:pqdtoai.proquest.com:3571810 |
| Date | 26 September 2013 |
| Creators | Ford, Miriam |
| Publisher | Adelphi University |
| Source Sets | ProQuest.com |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | thesis |
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