The Impact of Immigrant-Related Social Policies and Family Environments on the Sexual and Reproductive Health of Latine Children of Immigrants

This dissertation examines how immigrant exclusion affects the contexts that influence the sexual and reproductive health, as well as the behaviors related to sexual and reproductive health, of Latine young people in the United States. Through a multidisciplinary and multi-method approach, this dissertation explores the structural determinants that shape health outcomes in this diverse population. The research is structured into three empirical chapters. The first chapter examines how the COVID-19 pandemic intensified the roles and responsibilities of young Latine children within immigrant families, highlighting the strategic agency of youth in managing household duties under crisis. The second chapter focuses on individual determinants such as legal status, gender, and health insurance, revealing their significant associations with contraceptive use and HIV testing. The third chapter extends the analysis to broader socio-political climates, demonstrating how exclusionary policy environments lead to higher instances of contraceptive coercion in healthcare settings. Collectively, these findings advocate for inclusive immigration policies, enhanced healthcare accessibility, and the dismantling of discriminatory practices to improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes. The dissertation underscores the importance of addressing structural inequities and integrating intersectional frameworks in public health interventions. By centering the experiences of Latine young people, this research contributes to the understanding of health disparities and informs policy reforms aimed at advancing reproductive justice and health equity. The broader implications of this study extend beyond the U.S., offering insights relevant to global immigration and public health challenges.