I’m Not Good Enough for Anyone: Legal Status and the Dating Lives of Undocumented Young Adults

• In Event: 508 - Section on Latino/a Sociology Paper Session. Mixed Legal Studies and Transnational Families

Abstract

Legal status’ impact on romantic relationships has not yet been adequately explored in the literature. Based on video and phone interviews with twenty five undocumented activists from the ages of 18 to 28 years old, this research brings to light how legal status affects the romantic relationships of undocumented women and men. Gender roles are highly prevalent among young adults’ accounts and were consistent with stereotypical male and female roles in dating which often attribute more power and responsibility to men. As such, women experienced a slight advantage because traditional notions of courtship did not require them to provide resources, such as money or transportation, required for dating. Their issues centered on the difficulties of disclosing their legal status and depending on their partners for everyday activities.

Author

• Daniela Pila, State University of New York-Albany