Paternal Guilt, and Identity Negotiation in Transnational Fatherhood: A Phenomenological Study of Pakistani Migrants in Italy

• In Event: 50261 - Family Section Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 6: Migration & Immigrant Families

Abstract

Transnational fatherhood presents unique emotional and caregiving challenges, especially for migrant fathers navigating life across borders. Parenthood studies often focused motherhood in the context of transnational families and men are usually seen from the perspectives of labor laws, immigration policies and economy. This phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of Pakistani migrant fathers residing in Bergamo, Italy, examining how they balance emotional connections and caregiving responsibilities with economic imperatives being away from their families. Drawing on twenty-five (25) in-depth interviews, the research highlights key themes such as (1) emotional toll of long-distance fatherhood, (2). redefining fatherhood in transnational contexts and (3). coping mechanism for relieving emotional sufferings and challenging situations. The results explicate that emotional toll of long-distance fatherhood included feelings of loneliness, guilt and sadness and fathering role was exercised through engaging in digital caregiving and regular communication through audio/video calls using digital technology tools. Extreme feelings of stress and anxiety were reported on the specific occasions including illness or death of a family members and special events like birthdays, marriages or religious festivals. The stories of transnational fathers highlighted their turning to religion and accepting is as fate as vital coping mechanism to relieve emotional strain. The study highlights the need for psychosocial initiatives and engaging activities to reduce the feelings of loneliness.

Authors

• Syed Imran Haider, Ca Foscari University of Venice

• Francesco Della Puppa, Associate Professor, Ca Foscari University of Venice

• Iqbal Hussain, Allama Iqbal Open University Islamabad