A typology on the diversity of transnational family relationships of unaccompanied minors in Germany: A constructivist grounded theory study

Background The transnational family lives of unaccompanied minors (UMs) have gained increasing attention in academic discourse. Transnational family relationships are highly heterogeneous. Objectives The aim of this study is to present a typology on the diversity of UMs’ transnational family relationships in order to gain a nuanced view on family relationships. This helps to structure and understand the diversity of experiences relating to transnational family relationships and can serve as a basis for more differentiated research and professional support in practice. Methods This constructivist grounded theory study involved the analysis of 35 semi-structured interviews that were carried out in Germany with (former) UMs (n = 12), social workers/pedagogical staff (n = 20), and experts (n = 3). Results Five types of UM transnational family relationships were identified. Type 1 describes UMs who do not wish to maintain family contact across borders. Type 2 encompasses UMs who do not have the possibility to maintain transnational family relationships despite wishing to do so. Type 3 involves unstable/ambivalent transnational family relationships, and Type 4 refers to UMs with permanent/regular transnational family contact. Type 5 describes UMs in transition from transnational family contact to face to face contact. Specific characteristics, experiences and stressors, UMs’ aims, perspectives on family reunification, and need for social work support are presented with regard to each type. Conclusion This study underscores the continued importance of transnational family relationships to displaced UMs and highlights the need to view the diversity of UMs’ transnational family relationships in a nuanced way in research and professional practice.