Migration and Families in East and North Europe: Translocal Lifelines

This book explores the phenomenon of familyhood across borders, examining the experience of translocal familyhood and the ways in which lifelines in and between countries are formed when individual family members spend long periods away from home. It combines ethnographic, descriptive work with shorter photography-based chapters to consider the emotions, social relations, materialities, and discourses that occur within family lives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate realm of familyhood across borders, shedding light on the unique experiences of translocal familyhood and the intricate web of lifelines that form when individual family members embark on extended periods away from their homes. Through extensive long-term ethnographic research, the author examines the rich tapestry of emotions, social connections, material realities, and discourses that shape family lives within the diverse contexts of Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Romania, Russia, and Sweden. By carefully considering the interplay of gender, generation, class, and geography, the book uncovers the intricate dynamics that both create and reinforce inequalities, strengths, and vulnerabilities within and between families.

To enhance the reader's understanding, the book seamlessly blends ethnographic, descriptive work with shorter photography-based chapters, allowing textual and visual methods to complement one another. This approach not only adds depth and richness to the narrative but also makes it accessible to scholars across various disciplines, including sociology, geography, and anthropology, with interests in migration, transnationalism, and the sociology of the family.

The book explores the complex dynamics of family relationships, examining how distance, cultural differences, and economic pressures shape the experiences of individuals and families. It sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that arise when family members are separated by vast geographical distances, navigating different cultural norms, and adapting to new economic realities. Through vivid anecdotes and insightful analysis, the author provides a nuanced understanding of the emotional toll that long-distance separations can have on individuals and families, as well as the strategies that they employ to maintain strong bonds and cope with the challenges of living apart.

Furthermore, the book explores the role of technology in facilitating and shaping family relationships across borders. It examines how social media, video calls, and other forms of communication technology have revolutionized the way families stay connected and maintain a sense of belonging, even when they are physically separated. The author discusses the benefits and drawbacks of these technologies, as well as the ways in which they have influenced the dynamics of family life, both positively and negatively.

In addition to its exploration of familyhood across borders, the book also offers valuable insights into the broader social and cultural contexts in which families operate. It examines the impact of migration on family structures, relationships, and identities, as well as the ways in which families adapt and evolve in response to changing social and economic conditions. The author highlights the importance of understanding the diverse experiences of families and the role that they play in shaping society as a whole.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the sociology of the family, migration, and transnationalism. It provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that shape family life across borders, offering valuable insights into the emotional, social, and material aspects of family relationships. Through its interdisciplinary approach, the book appeals to scholars and researchers from a wide range of fields, contributing to our understanding of the evolving nature of familyhood in the modern world.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032137070