Family strengths in the separation and reunification of former single-mothers and their children: lived experiences of Filipina Immigrants in Norway

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to build on the scarce knowledge about the strengths of family immigrants. Previous studies concerning their separation and reunification are problem focused. Hence, it emphasized “weak perspectives”. Guided by social work values of valuing family relationship and using strength based perspectives, this study described the family strengths essential in achieving reunification from the immigration separation of former single headed families through the lived experiences amongst Filipina immigrants in Norway. Influx of Filipino immigrants due to family reunification is evident in Norway, thus it would be interesting to understand this phenomenon given the dearth of knowledge which would lead to understand their lived experiences concerning their family strengths. As an outcome of phenomenological study amongst eight (8) respondents, it was found out that appraisal, communication, initiative, collaborative problem solving, family commitment and social supports (formal and informal) emerged as their strengths essential in achieving reunification and maintaining the reunified families. Abiding with the social constructivist philosophy and using ecological framework, niches of strengths are evident in their narratives. Thus, conclusively, immigrant families, in spite of the challenging life courses, have strengths that made them adapt and maintain to live together. Recommendations of this study pointed out to strengthen inherent family strengths as outcome of interaction within and amongst the family members per se, the community and the larger society. Implication for future research, social work education and personal vision are also given in the later part.