When and how do parent-child acculturation gaps matter? A systematic review and recommendations for research and practice

Abstract

Parents and youth often adjust to new cultures at differing rates, resulting in parent-child acculturation gaps. The acculturation-gap distress hypothesis theorizes that these differences may negatively impact the child, parent, and family; however, findings remain inconsistent. In this systematic review, we provide an up-to-date synthesis of existing research on the parent-child acculturation gap among immigrant families and whether and when children's social and psychological outcomes, parenting, and family functioning are impacted. Further, we build upon the differential nuances of the culture of the gap—receiving or heritage—that relate to these outcomes. A systematic search in five databases for relevant studies up to January 15, 2025 resulted in a total of 98 included records. Contrary to the acculturation gap-distress hypothesis, more than half of the included studies indicated no association between the receiving and heritage culture parent-child gap and child, parenting, or family outcomes. We discuss notable exceptions to this pattern, indicating when and how family and child outcomes may be implicated. We conclude with clinical and research recommendations to guide future approaches for understanding the relevance of parent-child acculturation gaps for family and child outcomes.