The Impacts of Parental Migration on the Mental and Physical Health, Daily Needs, and Social Lives of Indonesian Caregivers of Left-Behind Children: A Qualitative Study

Despite its positive impact on household income, parental labour migration negatively affects left-behind children (LBC) and their caregivers. Studies in various settings have reported different impacts on LBC, but less is known about the consequences faced by their caregivers. This qualitative study used in-depth interviews to collect data from caregivers of LBC whose parents migrated for employment. Participants were recruited using the snowball sampling technique, starting with the distribution of study information sheets through village offices in Belu and Malacca districts, Indonesia. Data analysis was guided by a qualitative data analysis framework, which involved several steps, including familiarisation with the data or transcripts, identification of a thematic framework, indexing the data, charting the data, and mapping and interpreting the entire data. The findings showed that despite some benefits, including monthly remittances and positive feelings of living with and receiving support from LBC experienced by some caregivers, parental labour migration negatively impacted most caregivers due to their caregiving roles and responsibilities. These challenges included (i) mental and physical health issues, (ii) impacts on daily food and healthcare needs, and (iii) difficulties in their social lives and overall well-being. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive support systems and interventions to address these challenges and improve caregiver well-being. Such support systems should include access to mental and physical health services, financial assistance, employment opportunities, and social support networks. Future large-scale studies are recommended to explore the various impacts of parental migration and caregiving roles and responsibilities on caregivers of LBC, as the findings can better inform the development of policies and interventions to support them.