%0 Journal Article
%T Migration as a Challenge to Couple Relationships: The Point of View of Muslim Women
%A Cristina Giuliani
%A Marialuisa Gennari
%A Monica Accordini
%J -
%D 2018
%R https://doi.org/10.3390/soc8040120
%X Abstract Migration posits new challenges to couple relationships. The distance from one¡¯s family and kin, the need to restructure long-standing and culturally established role expectations, the social isolation, and economic strains often put couple stability at stake. Muslim women¡¯s perception of the changes that have occurred to their couple relationship after migration has rarely been investigated. To fill this gap in the research literature, a sample of 15 Moroccan and as many Pakistani women living in Italy were administered an in depth semi-structured interview. A thematic analysis of the interview transcripts led to the identification of the following main themes: (a) The value and meanings of marriage; (b) couple life in Italy: Partners¡¯ roles; (c) adjustments required by the post-migration context; and (d) resources of the post-migration context. Results show that while migration is often a challenge to couples who are called to renegotiate their values, expectations, and reciprocal duties, it might also be an opportunity to experience a new intimacy far from the control of their family. Moreover, while migration often entails greater autonomy and a more balanced couple relationship for Moroccan women, Pakistanis remain anchored to more traditional gender values and are more exposed to feeling isolated. View Full-Tex
%K Immigrant couples
%K Muslim immigrant women
%K gender role expectations
%K impact of migration
%U https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4698/8/4/120