The relationship between Bangladeshi immigrant parents and their children in Portugal: Focus on education and sociability aspect

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between immigrant Bangladeshi parents and their children in Portugal in terms of education and sociability of children. As this study was about the relationship in immigrant Bangladeshi families, four Bangladeshi immigrant families, who had been living in Lisbon, were purposively selected. Using the snowball sampling, four parents (3 fathers and one mother) and four children (son) were reached to collect the data. In this study, the qualitative research approach was followed, and data were gathered through semi-structured interview guides. The study findings showed that immigrant Bangladeshi parents and children have a positive relationship but with some diversifications. Though parents cannot support children in their studies directly due to language barriers, busy work schedules, and lack of knowledge about the Portuguese education system, they have diverse strategies such as sending children in private schools, recruiting private teachers and monitoring their study progress, etc. In sociability aspects, children’s attitudes were found to align with the parent’s expectations. Children and immigrant Bangladeshi parents were found highly influenced by religious belief and Bangladeshi culture with respect to dating and selecting life partners. Children were loyal to their parents, show respect, and recognizes the parent’s hardship. On the other hand, parents recognized their responsibility towards children’s education and sociability. It was recommended that both parents and children should develop a friendly and sharing relationship for better family functioning.