Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Connected Lives: Wellbeing and Health in a Globalised World, Lisbon, Portekiz, 16 - 17 Haziran 2025, (Yayınlanmadı)
This article explores the complex dynamics of transnational families formed between countries of origin situated on the periphery of Europe and geographically distant from one another. Despite notable social and cultural differences, these countries share similar levels of income per capita when adjusted for purchasing power. The destination countries are located in Central Europe and are characterized by strong economies within the European economic landscape. In an era of increasing global mobility (Bryceson & Vuorela, 2002), this study investigates how family members construct and maintain a sense of belonging across borders, navigating cultural differences, geographical distance, and evolving identities. Adopting a qualitative approach, the research explores the lived experiences of individuals within these transnational families. Framing the analysis is Appadurai's (1996) concept of “scapes,” which allows for an examination of the interplay of ethnoscapes (migration patterns), technoscapes (communication technologies, as highlighted by Baldassar et al., 2016), ideoscapes (cultural and political ideas), financescapes (economic flows), and mediascapes (media representations) in shaping their experiences. The study considers the negotiation of intergenerational solidarity (Baykara-Krumme & Fokkema, 2019) and the impact of migration on family roles and expectations, comparing and contrasting the narratives of Turkish and Portuguese families connected to Central European countries. Preliminary findings, derived from initial interview data, highlight the complex interplay of connection and separation, the resilience of family bonds, and the ongoing negotiation of “home” in a transnational European context. This study contributes to the conference themes by providing a nuanced understanding of well-being and challenges in transnational families relevant to social work practices and policies in diverse migration contexts. It also facilitates the sharing of knowledge rooted in lived experiences situated in distinct geographical contexts marked by social and cultural differences, contributing to strengthening Social Work discourses within educational settings that are more attentive to cultural specificities. This approach aligns with a culturally sensitive professional practice.