AbstractsPsychology

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the experiences of Zimbabwean immigrants in the U.S.A who have long distant caregiving (LDC) responsibilities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a mixed gender sample of nine adult participants. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis approach leading to four key themes: caring is our way of life; financial and emotional support as caring; caring as a source of emotional distress; and do not overstretch yourself in caring. The participants perceived caregiving as their way of life, a responsibility fulfilled by “being there” for one’s kin through financial and emotional assistance. The major challenge experienced in the LDC process was emotional distress resulting from lack of accurate information about needs and circumstances of homeland families. To effectively serve immigrant Zimbabweans with LDC duties, social services need to develop culturally relevant programs to help the immigrants cope with the challenges they face in LDC.