The Influence of Social Networks and Social Capital on the U.S. Destinations of Mexican Migrants

• In Event: 499 - Regular Session. International Migration: Social, Economic, and Political Determinants

Abstract

In this article we examine the process through which the social networks and social capital of Mexican migrants influence their choice of U.S. destination, both when migrating from Mexico and when relocating within the United States. Based on seventy semi-structured, in-depth interviews with male Mexican migrants residing in Colorado, we document the specific mechanisms that either guide migrants to a particular destination, or inform their choice of destination. In doing so, we demonstrate the importance of the timing and the interplay between social networks, social capital, and economic context in shaping migrants’ destination outcomes.

Authors

• Christina Alicia Sue, University of Colorado-Boulder

• Joshua G. LePree, University of Colorado-Boulder

• Fernando Riosmena, University of Colorado