Economic and Emotional Effects of Migration in the Rural Context

A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Objective – Identify the categories related to the economic and emotional effects of migration on the family members who remain in their localities.

Methodology – A systematized literature search was conducted to examine the economic and emotional effects of family migration. The review follows a methodological approach that contributes to the understanding of a given phenomenon (Botelho; Cunha; Macedo, 2011).

Originality/Relevance – The importance of this literature review lies in the fact that it centers its attention on families and individuals who remain in rural areas after the migration of their members, rather than primarily on those who migrate.

Results – The identified economic effects include increased income, changes in consumption patterns, limited use of remittances for savings and productive investment, economic dependency in the communities of origin, loss of family labor, and intra-household and gender inequality. The emotional effects identified include loneliness and sadness, anxiety and uncertainty, physical and emotional overload, and intergenerational tensions.

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The contribution of this study lies in identifying elements that highlight aspects related to the practice of migration in the reviewed studies.

Social and Environmental Contributions – The study contributes by exploring relevant effects of migration, fostering reflections on the process and the knowledge of those involved in both the country of origin and destination