Reports on a qualitative study of the changes experienced by El Salvadorans, Guatemalans, and Nicaraguans who had resettled in Canada as either immigrants or refugees. The 44 study participants – most of whom were married with children – were interviewed about life in their homeland, family roles, and the resettlement experience. Demographic data also were gathered. The interviews indicated that (1) the women were more likely than the men to share less-than-ideal descriptions of family life, such as drunkenness and abuse relationships; (2) participants were confused by or concerned about Canadian protections for women and children, notions of gender roles, and dating freedoms; (3) women were eager to pursue educational opportunities to better their situation. Unchanged in resettlement was the importance of family in providing guidance and support; for children, rules and restrictions were strictly enforced, especially for the girls. The higher cost of living in Canada has forced women to work outside of the home, causing concern among the men that their wives will expect too much liberty. Further longitudinal study following families from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua will add to an understanding of family life among culturally diverse groups.
