The Role Of Transnational Motherhood

Meagan,

I suppose it depends on what definition you apply to the word "provide." Financially, yes, the mothers are providing for their children. Emotionally providing is a bit more complicated. Extended family or other caregivers take that responsibility when transnational motherhood occurs.

Of note in the discussion of gender is also that we are not mentioning fathers who travel for work to provide financially for their children. Perhaps it's that their role is less emphasized than that of the mother in the home? I can't think of every example, but one would be that fathers drive tractor trailers across the country for extended periods of time to provide financially while often being emotionally absent. Our servicemen/women also deserve credit here.
Previously it was believed that a woman belonged at home with their children. It was a woman's responsibility to take care of her husband and the household chores. The gender assignment of these responsibilities has not changed (as we are giving little discussion to transnational fatherhood). Today, we are discussing how women provide financially for their children. Previously, the financial responsibility was placed on the father figure in the home. Times are changing, but whether or not they are moving toward gender equality is strongly