Trastornos en niños y niñas migrantes guatemaltecos deportados de Estados Unidos y Méxicomodelo intercultural para su atención y apoyo

Abstract

This doctoral research addresses child migration, focusing on Guatemalan children, adolescents, and teenagers (NNA) returning from the United States and México. Migration is a complex phenomenon that involves economic, social, and psychological considerations, particularly relevant due to its impact on minors. The purpose of this research is twofold: to enrich academic knowledge on child migration and its negative effects on the emotional well-being of minors, and to propose improvements in the practices of care for this vulnerable population. This research is crucial for Guatemala, where socioeconomic conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic have increased stress and risk for minors. The methodology is mixed, combining quantitative analysis with qualitative data. The Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale was utilized, and Collier’s social inventory was adapted to assess the socioeconomic conditions and environments of both migrant and non-migrant children. The results indicate that deported children exhibit significantly higher levels of anxiety compared to their non-migrant peers, underscoring the need for a comprehensive care model. The study concludes with a proposal for a model of care and support for migrant NNA, which can be adapted to other similar contexts. This proposal aims to influence decision-makers to manage migratory flows in an orderly and human rights-respecting manner, focusing on the specific needs of deported minors.