Emotional transnationalism and emotional flows: Japanese women in Australia

SynopsisThis paper discusses the emotional experience of Japanese migrant women in Australia, particularly in relation to transnationalism. Transnationalism theory points to growing connectivity between migrants and their family members. However, actual geographical distance at times impedes these transnational connections. The study employs the concept of emotional transnationalism to consider the emotional elements of transnational connections. It highlights how consciousness of being away from Japan as well as the struggle and incapability to fulfill their role as daughters, particularly when their loved ones need help, creates guilt and sadness for the migrant women.