A1 Journal article (refereed)
Performing transnational family with the affordances of mobile apps : a case study of Polish mothers living in Finland (2021)

Kędra, J. (2021). Performing transnational family with the affordances of mobile apps : a case study of Polish mothers living in Finland. Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, 47(13), 2877-2896. https://doi.org/10.1080/1369183X.2020.1788383

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Kędra, Joanna

Journal or series: Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies

ISSN: 1369-183X

eISSN: 1469-9451

Publication year: 2021

Publication date: 01/07/2020

Volume: 47

Issue number: 13

Pages range: 2877-2896

Publisher: Routledge

Publication country: United Kingdom

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1369183X.2020.1788383

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access:

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/72359

Abstract

Affordances provided by digital technologies and mobile apps (WhatsApp, Skype, Messenger) help in maintaining familyhood. These mobile apps enable the creation of in-app family groups. They also afford image sharing, which is used for phatic purposes. Digital connectivity provides the illusions of togetherness and belonging, and allows for performing family in a transnational context (emotional transnationalism). However, it also generates the feelings of guilt through infrequent communication. In the auto-driven visual elicitation interviews, the study looks at family constellations and technologically mediated communication from the perspective of five Polish mothers living in Finland. Applying the technique of an interactive collage, participants visualised kinship relations, using colourful cards showing silhouettes of adults and children and icons of mobile apps. The findings reveal complexities in digitally mediated familyhood, performed in the polymedia environment and determined by technological affordances.

Keywords: family life; family relations; interpersonal communication; mobile apps; immigrants; Polish people; transnationalism

Free keywords: affordances; collage; mobile apps; Polish migrants; transnational family; visual elicitation

Contributing organizations

Related projects

Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2021

JUFO rating: 2