Male migration and decision making: are women finally being included?

Abstract

In a mixed methods interdisciplinary case study approach, this paper explores the role of decision making for women who remain in their rural communities when male migration is considered and, on occasion, acted upon. In a unique approach in the field of migration studies, this paper considers not only women whose husbands have migrated – absent husbands – but also the impact of male migration on women whose husbands have returned – most often from the United States – as well as women whose husbands have never left – anchored husbands. The findings from this study of women in San Juan Guelavía, Oaxaca, Mexico, suggest that women’s involvement in migration decision making pertaining to imminent or potential emigration of husbands remains, in large part, the domain of husbands, but generational differences are shown that may begin to erode men’s traditional patriarchal role. Women with anchored husbands often implement strategies – consciously or subconsciously – to retain husbands in the home and with the family, especially if decision making power is weak on the part of wives.