Care circulation
(2025) Elgar Encyclopedia of Global Migration : New Mobilities and Artivism — ISBN: [978-1-03530-037-2], p. 107-109, published
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- Abstract
- (en) The concept of care circulation, coined by Loretta Baldassar and Laura Merla in 2014, encapsulates the reciprocal, multidirectional, and uneven exchange of care within transnational family networks. It challenges the prevailing notion that physical proximity is essential for caregiving, highlighting the various forms of support that can be exchanged across distances. This framework expands beyond mother-child relationships, revealing the complex and intergenerational care dynamics within families. The asymmetry in exchanges reflects power imbalances, with women often giving more care. Additionally, it emphasizes the roles of often overlooked family members such as the elderly, children, and men. The concept underscores the significance of considering local family cultures and kinship systems in understanding care practices worldwide. This perspective also aligns with a constructivist view of the family, emphasizing the importance of family practices in shaping a sense of belonging across borders. The research in this field explores the forms and factors influencing care circulation, spanning various family configurations, migratory statuses, and socio-economic backgrounds. Key themes include the role of technology and the impact of migration policies on caregiving capabilities.
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Citations
Merla, L. (2025). Care circulation. In Natalia Ribas Mateos, Melissa Moralli, Laura Oso (eds.) (ed.), Elgar Encyclopedia of Global Migration : New Mobilities and Artivism (p. p. 107-109). Edward Elgar Publishing. https://hdl.handle.net/2078.5/240089