Working with Families of African Caribbean Origin : Understanding Issues Around Immigration and Attachment

In this book, Elaine Arnold argues that knowledge of attachment theory is essential in order to work effectively with African-Caribbean clients who have experienced separation and loss through immigration. The disruption of attachment bonds through temporary separation and loss - not only of significant members of the family but also the familiarity of one's own country - are often traumatic for many immigrants and their descendants. It has been over 60 years since large numbers of African-Caribbean people arrived in England expecting to find work. Despite facing disappointment and often racial discrimination, wives and partners who had stayed behind joined their spouses in Britain, since plans for returning home with money to embark on projects in the Caribbean gradually disappeared. In this book the pattern of African-Caribbean family life, pre- and post-migration, are explored. Discrimination and institutional racism are highlighted, and implications for teachers and professionals in the helping services emphasized.