How Illegal Immigration Affects the Emotional and Social Growth of Children
Illegal Immigration and Its Impact on Children
Every year, thousands of people leave their home countries in search of a better life. For many, this means crossing borders—often illegally—into unfamiliar lands, with the hope of finding work, security, and opportunity.
But these journeys come at a high emotional cost—especially for children.
Mexico, for example, has one of the highest migration rates in the world. Each year, more and more families are torn apart as one or both parents resettle in the U.S. without their children. Tragically, more children are now crossing the U.S.–Mexico border alone—risking their lives to reunite with loved ones.
What Happens to the Children Left Behind?
The psychological and developmental impact on these children can be severe:
-
Anxiety and depression: When a child loses daily contact with a parent, emotional trauma often follows.
-
Developmental delays: Prolonged absence of a stable caregiver can stall emotional, cognitive, and social development.
-
Isolation and insecurity: Without consistent guidance, children may become withdrawn, mistrusting, and anxious.
-
Behavioral issues: Acting out in school or at home is often a cry for attention or a reflection of internal chaos.
The Breakdown of Family Structure
Immigration—especially when it results in family separation—tears at the core of a child’s identity. It often creates:
-
A deep sense of abandonment
-
Long-term psychological scars
-
A lack of trust in adults or authority figures
-
Decreased academic performance
-
Exposure to neglect or abuse if left with overwhelmed or disinterested caregivers
Children in these situations grow up too fast, shouldering adult burdens while longing for the security of their parents’ presence.
An Emotional Snapshot: “Left Across the Border” (Excerpt)
“There’s a saying that eyes are the window to the soul. Mine? You won’t get a good look. But if you do, you’ll see both light and darkness. My soul used to be bright—because I had two parents who loved me and sisters I adored. But they left. And now my soul is just trying to stay whole.”
This powerful excerpt speaks to the pain of separation, the confusion of abandonment, and the blurred identities many children of illegal immigration wrestle with.
The Bigger Questions: Where Do We Go From Here?
Is there a better way to keep families together without compromising border security?
What do you think of the immigration policies proposed by former presidents like Barack Obama and Donald Trump? Are border walls a solution—or just a symbol?
Most importantly:
What kind of nation do we want to be—to our neighbors and to our children?
I could never relocate myself and not bring my children. I can’t even imagine leaving them behind.
Robin Rue(@massholemommy) Thats my point and yet numerous Mexican children attempt to cross the US Border daily…. Alone and scared left to basically grow up fast.
Sometimes you have to do what you have to do to make a better life for you and your family. Having moved here from another country although legally I can totally understand why some women/men do it.
Amanda/Growing Up Madison, I don’t thing I would send my child to travel dangerous journey alone. AS a mother I would have travel with my child.
I can’t imagine going anywhere without my children or grandchildren. I can only imagine how hard it must be for the families who had to make the decision I’m glad I’m not faced with.
I can only imagine how difficult it would be want to have to make life-changing decisions to provide for your family.They go through so much.
It’s hard for me to think that i need to leave my kids for relocation. I would not leave my kids for any reason. I can’t imagine the life without them.
I’m so thankful that we are didn’t suffer into this situation. It so sad that other people need to face this.
It is a sad reality that some countries still have families torn apart by migration. It is the call of a better pay, a better life for the children they left behind. However, the psychological impact on the child has not been considered. Although the intent is good, the end result does not always turn out as desired.
Annemarie LeBlanc, I agree with you about the psychological affect on the kids…They are left to suffer. Thanks for your support.
This happened to my friend. He moved to another country and became illegal. He never met his son 🙁 So sad. it’s been 13 years.
This is true. It’s different when a child grows up with their parents and when a child grows up with relatives or extended family. But I also know families who have made this work as well and the child grew up without going through any of these issues. I guess it really depends on how the child is raised.
Elizabeth O, Your point is well said but these children are too young with no stability their chances is slim.
It’s really hard when families are separated, but sometimes, this can’t be helped. Parents would seek greener pastures to be able to support their families.
I can’t imagine leaving my children.
I’ve often wondered how hard it must be on the kids when one parent crosses a border and has to leave the family behind. My heart aches for all involved, most especially the children.
I have a lot of opinions on this issue, and for that, I’m going to say none.