۱- Transnational families versus cohabitating families

۲- A typology of transnational families

۳- WFB among transnational employees

۴- Characteristics of transnational families and WFB

۵- Discussion

۶- Conclusion

References

Abstract

In a growing number of families, members are dispersed across country borders, but maintain close ties. Despite their growing prevalence, an overarching theoretical framework to explain this phenomenon is absent and little is known about work-family experiences in this type of family. With this in mind, we provide a typology that can be applied to the transnational family as a theoretical lens through which diverse forms of transnational families can be understood. Next, we provide a definition of work-family balance (WFB) that considers unique aspects of transnational families while also drawing upon previous definitions of WFB developed in the domestic work-family literature. Finally, we discuss how WFB may differ depending on the characteristics of transnational families. We conclude by discussing implications and suggestions for future research.

Transnational families versus cohabitating families

Two core characteristics define transnational families. First, members of a transnational family live some or most of the time geographically separated from each other in different countries (Bryceson & Vuorela, 2002). This characteristic differentiates transnational families from cohabitating families, which are the typical focus in the work-family literature. Unlike cohabitating families, members of transnational families do not have face-to-face interaction with each other on a daily or near daily basis. Second, a transnational family strives for a feeling of collective welfare and unity and remains as a dynamic system that consists of a group of people who share common goals and have long-term commitments to one another (Bryceson & Vuorela, 2002). In this sense, transnational families are similar to cohabitating families in that they look after each other. However, geographic dispersion results in unique ways by which the transnational family maintains familyhood. For example, previous research has documented the activities by which members of transnational families connect with each other, such as by sending financial resources (e.g., Maimbo & Ratha, 2005; Menjivar, DaVanzo, Greenwell, & Valdez, 1998; Stark & Lucas, 1988) and by communicating through various channels (e.g., Hondagneu-Sotelo & Avila, 1997; Horst, 2006; Wilding, 2006).