Immigration in the Age of Information and Communication Technologies: Implications for Social Support and Health

Background and Purpose: The highly transnational nature of immigrant populations has transformed acculturation "expectations" providing them a life between transnational social ields-here and there. Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) have given new meanings to the relationship between migrants and their networks in their home countries. There are an estimated 68,238 Brazilians-born immigrants living in MA (US Census, 2011-2015). Like other first-generation immigrants, Brazilian immigrants experience better health outcomes than the overall population, however, with time in the US this advantage fades. This presentation explores the importance of ICT in the maintenance and strength of Brazilian immigrants' in the U.S. transnational relationships and consideration for social support and health.

Methods: A mixed method research methodology was employed. Brazilian immigrants (n=30) participated in social network interviews in addition we conducted a photovoice project (n=5) exploring the impact of migration on living environments and health. We recruit participants through personal networks, in ESL classes, barbershops, word of mouth as well as community and religious events. Most social network interviews were performed in Portuguese by bilingual-bi-cultural, well-trained interviewers. The photovoice was conducted in mostly English by the PIs. Participants were encouraged to express themselves in Portuguese as well. The data was transcribed verbatim and analyzed qualitatively using preexisting theoretical frameworks as well as grounded theory strategies. The qualitative analysis software NVivo was used to manage and code social network interviews. Photovoice themes and narrative was developed into a PowerPoint presentation with help from the participants. 

Results and Implications: Findings indicate that the ICT's play an important role in functional and emotional support across borders for Brazilians. ICTs were described as a way to cut across geographic distances and remain "close" to family and friends left in Brazil. Brazilian immigrants reported that they feel like they participate actively in the lives of family and friends that live in Brazil. A participant said because "they [his cousin] are always on the phone." However, relationships abroad to some were still precarious regardless of ICT usage revealing that the same tools that can promote closeness do not substitute to physical contact. 

ICT usage has potential implications to immigrants' level of social support as well as mental health and wellbeing. Brazilian immigrants use of ICTs to maintain strong ties to family and friends abroad, which open news lines of social/emotional support. ICTs are also a cultural lifeline recharging and reinforcing norms, behaviors, and beliefs from the sending country. Interventions to promote community and mental health among immigrants should consider the importance of transnational ties. Further research is needed to establish how transnational network dynamics impact immigrants' mental health.