Comparing Transnational and Local Influences on Immigrant Transnational Families of African and Asian Origin in Portugal

Abstract

This article aims to discuss the influence of transnational family experiences and migratory integration on the redefinition processes of family dynamics through a comparative study among selected families of migrant backgrounds settled in Lisbon. Guiding research questions are the following: How do migrants whose cultures have historically been examples of a particular family dynamic implement it in the Portuguese migratory context? How are these dynamics changing and what are the consequences for the families and individual family members concerned? What is the effect on family dynamics of continuing transnational connections and of different experiences of insertion and exposure to values and attitudes of the receiving society? Comparative analysis has brought to light how continuing family transnationalism and local integration do not significantly transform long-standing migrant family dynamics. While allowing transnational family members to negotiate specific family relations, these negotiations are not experienced as a project in opposition to cultural and religious family traditions.