Extending Relational Turbulence Theory by Examining the Experiences of Latina/o/x/e Couples Facing Migration-Based Family Separation

This study tested a portion of relational turbulence theory with 58 highly under-resourced Latina/o/x/e couples navigating migration-based family separation (i.e., where one partner migrated to the United States, while the other remained in a Latin American country, most often with their children). Couples completed pre- and post-conversation surveys and participated in an audio-recorded phone conversation discussing their experiences. Actor-partner interdependence mediation models (APIMeM) showed that pre-conversation self and partner uncertainty were positively related to post-conversation perceived partner disconnection (biased cognitive appraisals), which in turn was related to less openness about separation stress (communicative engagement) for partners in Latin America. Further, partner and relationship uncertainty of U.S.-based partners were indirectly related to less openness among partners in Latin America, highlighting the interdependent nature of partners’ relational experiences. Familismo only moderated one of the tested associations. Findings extend RTT’s applicability to this structurally and culturally distinct context and point to the urgency of providing stratified support for families facing systemically driven relational stress.