Transnational marriages and the health and well-being of Thai migrant women living in Norway

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the health and well-being of Thai immigrant women in transnational marriages. Design/methodology/approach

Interviews with 13 Thai women living in Norway who have (had) a Norwegian spouse/partner were conducted and the transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings

Initial culture shock and a mixture of employment issues, transnational ties, marital relationships and social networks intertwined to influence women’s health and well-being over time. Sending financial remittances to family in Thailand could be challenging due to struggles to obtain suitable employment, working in low-paid physical jobs and spouses’ lack of understanding of this cultural practice. Over time, these intertwined factors led to chronic stress and deteriorating health for some. Thai networks and friendships were important for emotional and practical support. Practical implications

More organised assistance may be beneficial to facilitate integration, reduce social isolation and improve employment opportunities. Originality/value

Research on Thai women has so far focused on their position as immigrant wives and the vulnerabilities to exploitation and abuse they face. Focusing on only discourses around marital relationships may be limiting when trying to understand factors that influence the health and well-being of Thai immigrant women.