A Narrative Study on the Role of Colombian Uncles in Family Dynamics

This narrative study examines Colombian uncles’ significant roles in family dynamics, filling a gap in understanding their impact within extended family structures. Through qualitative interviews with 30 families, narrative inquiry captures uncles’ contributions to emotional support, cultural transmission, mentorship, and family cohesion. Participants aged 20–60 describe uncles as mentors, cultural custodians, and emotional anchors, especially when parents are absent. Narrative analysis through thematic coding highlights uncles’ roles in fostering resilience, transmitting heritage, and reinforcing family bonds. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating extended family roles in family therapy to offer culturally sensitive support, providing new insights into Latin American family dynamics and uncles’ influence on younger members’ development and well-being.