Sustainability of family relationships in a distance: doing family in global migration

Global migration condition that most families have at least one member who lives abroad permanently or temporary. Living in a distance is challenge for familial relationships, therefore, family members search for ways to sustain as a family. But is little known about recent practices that keep sustainability in familial relationships in the context of global migration. Based on the theoretical approaches of family practices (Morgan, 1996) and doing family (Smart, 2007), the main research question formulated: which practices are doing family despite distance and periods of living across borders? Hypothesis formulated: particular family practices contribute more than other to sustainability of the family in the context of global migration. Empirical data of the representative quantitative survey “Global migration and Lithuanian family: family practices, circulation of care and return strategies” used for testing of the hypothesis. The survey was conducted in 2018, and represent 18 years and older habitants of Lithuania. In total, 1005 habitants were asked by using standardized questionnaire. The methods of descriptive statistics, as well, of multivariate statistical analysis (Regression analysis, Factor analysis) applied in analysis. The research results reveal, in the context of global migration, families become fragile because members of the nuclear and extended family often retreat from routine activities performed on a daily basis, as well, from some traditions. While, withdrew family members are replaced by non- kin. Meanwhile, participation at religious festivities (Christmas Eve, Christmas, Easter) or in the Mother and Father’s Day celebrations, are practices that may ensure sustainability of the family as such.