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

Abstract

In this introductory article, we as guest editors set out the key ambitions and arguments of the Special Issue and highlight our contribution to social network research within migration studies. We argue that social network analysis has the potential to address epistemological pitfalls in migration research especially in overcoming the metaphoric use of networks as well as nation‐state and ethnicity‐centred epistemologies. Moreover, we suggest that adopting a qualitative approach to social networks not only changes how we research networks but also what we understand them to be. While seeking to go beyond metaphors and delve into the tool box of SNA, in order to gain deeper understandings of social networks, we argue that this cannot mean purely quantitative research techniques. We draw upon the early roots of social network research, within anthropology, to find inspiration and consider the contribution of qualitative approaches to analysing dynamic social relationships and to including neglected aspects like meaning making and agency. Adopting a reflexive approach enables us to de‐migranticise our research turning the role of migration and ethnicity for social networks into an empirical question rather than taking them as an essentialist starting point for investigation. The Special Issue brings together an integrated set of articles drawn from a social networks and migration symposium. Using qualitative and mixed methods approaches, these articles focus on a diverse range of geographical and social contexts. In so doing, the authors offer new methodological and epistemological insights into migrants’ social networks.

Dis-embedding or Re-embedding? Exploring Migrants’ Responses in Contexts of ‘Unsettling Events’

“…Following the cultural turn, there is growing interest in qualitative and mixedmethods approaches to networks (Ryan & Dahinden, 2021). Moreover, there have been calls for more attention to meaning-making and perception among some network scholars (D'Angelo & Ryan, 2021).…”

A relational analysis of migration in old age: How transnational ties affect migration decisions

“…Furthermore, scholars of transnational studies have highlighted the potential of SNA to overcome ‘methodological nationalism’ (Ryan & Dahinden, 2021; Wimmer & Glick Schiller, 2002). Indeed, by focusing on individual attributes and relationships between network members, SNA enables scholars to analyse ‘ethnicity’ or ‘migration background’ as one of many attributes that influence network and social phenomena (Ryan & Dahinden, 2021). In so doing, the analysis goes beyond specific ethnic groups or migrant populations and their implied inherent differences (Dahinden, 2016).…”

From Conflict Zones to Europe: Syrian and Afghan Refugees’ Journeys, Stories, and Strategies

“…From the diverse approaches to migration studies, it has been agreed that "personal networks enhance and facilitate migration by decreasing costs and risks and [providing] information as well as social, emotional and financial assistance" (Ryan & Dahinden, 2021, p. 460). Many scholars have used the term "network" to explain migration in the age of information (Castells, 2010;Ryan & Dahinden, 2021;Schapendonk, 2015) and the complex transnational links built between migrants (Armbruster, 2002;Basch et al, 1994;Portes, 1998), allowing the exchange of resources, information, and knowledge (Belabbas, 2020). As shown in this article, maintaining ties with family and friends who have already escaped the war significantly informs the asylum seekers' migration decision-making process.…”

“…From the family's own accounts, they were willing to further invest in developing social capital, creating and expanding their network in their country of resettlement to better understand the functioning of the host society, reach the desired aim, and navigate their social positions, echoing again Pathirage and Collyer's (2011) work on networks. Moreover, such networks are clearly changing over time and space (Ryan & Dahinden, 2021), while other social factors, such as individual ambitions, age, and family status, also determine the nature of networks needed in specific contexts.…”