Abstract
Since Arab origin migrants began arriving in the United States in the 1880s, their experiences have always included an important intergenerational component. Originating from collectivistic cultures which consider family as a central and foundational force, Arab Americans often adhere to a strong sense of deference to family over individual needs and continue to maintain strong family connections across borders and generations. Thus, it is critical to understand intergenerational factors as part of the biopsychosocial context for Arab Americans. This chapter draws from bioecological theory and the cumulative racial/ethnic trauma model to understand the multiple and interacting socioecological contexts impacting intergenerational relationships within Arab American families. A critical lens on culture and acculturation, and intergenerational trauma and resilience, is provided. Finally, practice and policy implications for Arab American community engagement, resilience, and equity are described.
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Kia-Keating, M., Ahmed, S.R., Guler, J., Alshabani, N. (2023). Intergenerational Relations. In: Nassar, S.C., Ajrouch, K.J., Dallo, F.J., Hakim-Larson, J. (eds) Biopsychosocial Perspectives on Arab Americans. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-28360-4_3
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