Transnational Fatherhood, Negotiating Masculinity and Parental Care in the Digital Communication Era

The research proposal aims at investigating the relationship between transnational fatherhood, negotiation of masculinity, and parental care practices among Pakistani migrant men in Italy.

The migration patterns prompted by socioeconomic factors, traditional gender roles, and improved quality of life in certain regions have led to a surge in migration predominantly by men.

This study seeks to explore how transnational fathers navigate their roles across family, work, and society and use digital communication tools to maintain family connection.Guided by an intersectional perspective and innovative methodologies, this research project focuses on the experiences of Pakistani migrant men.

The research objectives include investigating the impact of transnational fatherhood on the construction and negotiation of masculinity, exploring the role negotiation of migrant fathers, understanding the interplay between migration, masculinity, emotions, and transnational fatherhood, and analyzing how digital communication technologies influence fatherhood and care practices.By focusing on Pakistani migrant men, this research addresses a critical gap in the literature surrounding masculinity, fatherhood, and emotional care.

In light of the statistics revealing the substantial influx of male migrants, particularly from South Asia, this project becomes pivotal for addressing this.The research design employs a variety of qualitative methodologies including in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and content analysis.

The primary and secondary sample respondents consist of Pakistani migrant men with and without families in Italy, Italian natives interacting with Pakistani migrants, field experts and other stakeholders. The sampling strategy involves purposive selection and aims to achieve data saturation.

This project aims to shed light on the complex dynamics of transnational fatherhood, masculinity, and parental care in the digital age.