Beyond Financial Support: The Social and Emotional Dimensions of Remittances among Filipino Migrants

Abstract

Sending remittances is a deeply personal act influenced by cultural and social norms, as well
as familial expectations. This thesis aims to explore how these influences shape the decisions
of Filipino migrants in Sweden to send remittances and the following impact on their
emotional bonds and familial relationships. By simplifying the complex phenomenon of
remittances, the study investigates the motivations, challenges, and impacts faced by
migrants, focusing on how they navigate their emotional ties with family and friends.
Through 14 semi-structured interviews with Filipino migrants in Sweden, this research
uncovers the complex balance between cultural expectations and personal values.
Theoretically, it draws on Durkheim's concepts of altruism and egoism, as well as
Hochschild's theory of emotion work, to understand the social and emotional dimensions of
remittances. The findings show that strong cultural norms create an obligation to send
remittances, significantly affecting migrants’ well-being and relationships. Both altruistic and
egoistic motivations influence remittance practices, contributing to family unity while also
potentially leading to conflicts. This dual role of remittances underscores how they can both
strengthen family bonds and create tension.

Popular Abstract

Sending money back home, known as remittances, is a common practice among Filipino
migrants. For many, remittances are more than only financial transactions as they represent a
deeply ingrained cultural duty. This duty often begins when migrants leave the Philippines
and continues regardless of their circumstances abroad. Sending money home is not just about
economic support but also continuing social and cultural ties.
This study explores how cultural and social expectations shape this practice and its impact on
migrants’ emotional and family relationships. Interviews with 14 Filipino migrants in Sweden
show that sending remittances is both practical and symbolic. It provides social validation and
prestige. However, failing to send money can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and criticism
from the community. Sending remittances has a deep emotional impact on migrants. Many
feel guilty about migrating, as Filipino culture values living close to the family. Remittances
may ease some of this guilt, but they may also create emotional strain. Migrants balance their
own needs with family expectations. Despite these challenges, all the interviewed migrants
continue to send money home, driven by strong cultural and emotional bonds.
The study finds that remittances play a dual role in transnational families. They foster social
unity by maintaining family bonds but can also create tension. The emotional work involved
in sending remittances is significant, as migrants must balance their personal desires with
their familial obligations. This study provides a broad understanding of the practice of
sending remittances among Filipino migrants in Sweden, by highlighting the complex
cultural, social, and emotional factors involved. By exploring these dynamics, the study offers
insights into the broader effects of remittances for migrants and transnational families.

• author: Pettersson Bustamante, Matilda
• supervisor: Charalambos Demetriou
• organization: Sociology
• course: SOCM05 20241
• year: 2024
• type: H2 - Master's Degree (Two Years)
• subject: Social Sciences
• keywords: Remittances, Migrants, Transnational families, Cultural norms, Emotion work
• language: English
• id: 9175233
• date added to LUP: 2024-09-24 14:58:42
• date last changed: 2024-09-24 14:58:42