Intergenerational trauma in forcibly-displaced populations in Latin America: a scoping review

Key findings from this study

• The review identifies that only six articles met inclusion criteria, indicating sparse empirical literature on intergenerational trauma in forcibly displaced Latinx populations from Latin America and the Caribbean.
• The authors report that included articles demonstrated wide variations in operationalizations of intergenerational trauma, transmission mechanisms, and coping strategies, limiting cross-study comparison.
• The review identifies substantial gaps in standardized definitions, consistent measurement approaches, and evidence regarding protective factors and adaptive coping mechanisms in this population.

Overview

This scoping review examined literature on intergenerational trauma among forcibly displaced populations in Latin America and the Caribbean. The review addressed three objectives: mapping existing literature, identifying operationalizations of intergenerational trauma alongside transmission mechanisms and coping strategies, and documenting knowledge gaps. Systematic searches across 20 online databases identified six articles meeting inclusion criteria, which addressed intergenerational trauma in forcibly displaced Latinx groups originating in the region.

Methods and approach

The authors conducted systematic searches in 20 online databases to identify peer-reviewed articles studying intergenerational trauma, transmission mechanisms, and coping strategies in forcibly displaced Latinx populations. English and Spanish-language articles were eligible for inclusion. Narrative analysis extracted relevant themes from included literature to synthesize findings across operationalizations, mechanisms, and research gaps.

Results

Three general themes emerged regarding intergenerational trauma in forcibly displaced Latinx populations: operationalizations of the construct, transmission mechanisms and coping strategies, and identified research gaps. Two subthemes characterized operationalizations: measures and samples employed, and the motives underlying forced displacement. The review identified substantial inconsistencies in how intergenerational trauma was defined and operationalized across the six included articles. Literature gaps encompassed definitional clarity, standardized measurement approaches, and evidence regarding protective factors and adaptive coping mechanisms in this population.

Implications

The scoping review demonstrates critical deficiencies in the evidence base regarding intergenerational trauma in forcibly displaced populations from Latin America and the Caribbean. Wide variations in conceptualization and operationalization across a limited body of literature impede comparative analysis and synthesis of findings. These inconsistencies constrain the development of effective, evidence-based interventions tailored to forcibly displaced populations and their descendants in the Americas.

The authors recommend greater methodological rigor and consistency in trauma reporting to support future research. Standardized definitions and operationalizations would facilitate knowledge accumulation across studies. Establishing such consistency remains essential for advancing understanding of how trauma transmits intergenerationally and which coping strategies promote resilience in this vulnerable population.

Improved evidence on intergenerational trauma mechanisms and coping strategies directly informs the design of health-promoting systems for forcibly displaced populations and their descendants. Addressing identified knowledge gaps requires coordinated research efforts employing consistent measurement frameworks. Such efforts would strengthen the evidence base guiding policy and practice interventions across the region.

Scope and limitations

This summary is based on the study abstract and available metadata. It does not include a full analysis of the complete paper, supplementary materials, or underlying datasets unless explicitly stated. Findings should be interpreted in the context of the original publication.