What Works? Family Influences on Occupational Aspirations among Descendants of Middle Eastern Immigrants on the Swedish Labour Market

Abstract

In this article, we examine family influences on occupational aspirations among employed descendants of Middle Eastern immigrants. Using a qualitative approach, we conducted 21 semi-structured interviews with native-born descendants of Middle Eastern immigrants. We present and analyse their interpretations of their parents’ experiences and living conditions before, during and after migration and demonstrate how these interpretations shaped their own occupational aspirations. We discuss parents’ high expectations of their children in relation to ethnic-community valuations of educational and occupational achievements. These high expectations may increase the chances of social mobility but can also become a negative pressure, especially if parents set high standards but cannot help their children to meet those expectations. In these cases, older siblings who possess valuable knowledge of the educational system and labour market can function as important transferrers of resources.

Exploring Employability Constructions of Migrants in Sweden and Potential Consequences for Labour Market Entrance Recommendations

“…Previous research has shown the importance of employment for social inclusion and integration of migrants (e.g., Aslan et al 2018;van Riemsdijk et al 2016), and public officials can play an important role in facilitating the process towards gaining employment (Aslan et al 2019;Eggenhofer-Rehart et al 2018;Pajic et al 2018). An individual's perception of their employment opportunities is influenced by a number of aspects, among them ascriptions of employability, suggested guidance and information provided by government officials, Public Employment Service representatives, and recruitment agents.…”

“…This process is far from an easy endeavour (e.g., Diedrich 2017). As previous research has pointed out, participation in the labour market is an important component of integration and social inclusion (e.g., Aslan et al 2018;van Riemsdijk et al 2016). In addition, paid employment is the main road towards securing permanent residency (SFS 2016(SFS :752 2016.…”