How do migrants’ processes of social embedding unfold over time?

Abstract

In this article we investigate how migrants’ processes of social (dis‐) embedding in local and transnational contexts unfold over time and illustrate their driving forces. Drawing on unique longitudinal, mixed‐methods social network data of 77 transnational migrants in Barcelona, Spain, we were able to capture changes in social relationships at a micro‐level. We found that migrant embedding is far from a linear process. In many regards, the observed network dynamics are similar to those the literature observed for non‐migrants; for example, the more substantial changes were typically caused by life events. We also found that migrants’ opportunities to form new relationships with natives depended on their positions within their places of residence, which were structured by gender, race and class. These results call into question assumptions of individual agency in integration and assimilation debates. Furthermore, they call for a greater presence of temporality and life course scholarship in research into migrants’ networks.

The networked character of migration and transnationalism

“…In migration research, researchers have used qualitative methods to address the relationships migrants form and maintain as well as to investigate social support migrants exchange with their family members or friends (Bilecen, 2019, 2020; Lubbers et al., 2021; Menjívar, 2000; Ryan, 2011; Ryan et al., 2008). In addition, the meanings attached to certain relationships and networks are also highly relevant for the topic of identity in migration studies (Scranton et al., 2016; Zontini, 2004).…”

“…However, it is believed to be crucial for the social mobility of immigrants, as well as for the integration of society, that newcomers also establish “expansive networks” that include native‐born individuals or immigrants from other groups (Hagan, 1998). Nonetheless, the extent to which this is possible depends on, among other factors, the openness of the native‐born population to migrants and the level of racism encountered (Sánchez et al., 2018) as well as on the opportunities that migrants have to meet native‐born people (Lubbers et al., 2021).…”

Qualitative network analysis for migration studies: Beyond metaphors and epistemological pitfalls

“…This term can be used to mean dyadic relationships with a relative or friend, or a wide range of diverse ties to neighbours, work colleagues, acquaintances as well as kin. In addition, to the place utility of networks within the destination society (Haug, 2008), much has been written about transnational networks carried on virtually (online), physically (offline) as well as a combination of both media (for an overview, see Lubbers et al., 2020).…”

Differentiated Embedding and Social Relationships Among Russian Migrant Physicians in Finland: A Narrative Socio‐Analysis

“…High-skilled migration research on social networks, friendship making, and the resources they provide in social integration has burgeoned in the last decade (cf. Ryan, 2011Ryan, , 2015, although research has focused primarily on social networks of "low-skilled" migrants (Lubbers et al, 2021). Research interest in work-life domains among high-skilled migrants has been embedded in the academic tradition of global economy and labor market integration in such disciplines as human resource development and management, political economy, and human geography (Favell et al, 2007;Habti, 2012, pp.…”

“…Conceptually, "embedding" is used to understand the diversity of migrant's ties as they perform various functions across various social settings (Ryan, 2011(Ryan, , 2015. Moreover, it may carry less normative theoretical baggage than "integration" and "assimilation" theories, which overlooked the dynamics of embeddedness over time (Lubbers et al, 2021). The study draws on qualitative biographical interviews from 26 Russian migrant physicians, and uses Bourdieu's (Bourdieu & Wacquant, 1992) socio-analysis of narratives and meaning-making at the micro-level.…”