Between Absence and Dreams: A Phenomenological Study on the Experiences of Malaiyaha Tamil Children with Migrant Mothers

Abstract

Maternal labor migration has become a significant socioeconomic strategy among structurally marginalized communities in Sri Lanka, particularly within the Malaiyaha Tamil estate sector. While existing research has largely focused on economic and educational outcomes, there remains limited understanding of children’s lived experiences within these contexts. This study aimed to explore how Malaiyaha Tamil children make sense of their mothers’ migration for overseas employment. A qualitative design informed by Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adolescents aged 12-17 years residing in plantation communities. Data were analyzed ideographically before identifying shared experiential patterns across cases. The analysis generated three interrelated superordinate themes: (1) mother as emotional anchor and “absent presence,” (2) childhood reassigned through role reorganization and educational vulnerability, and (3)living between longing and aspiration within structural constraint. Findings indicate that maternalmigration is experienced as a relational paradox, where financial provision coexists with emotionaldisruption. Children described ambivalent attachment experiences, shifting family roles, and variededucational engagement shaped by available support systems. Despite these challenges, participantsarticulated future aspirations that reflected resilience within structurally constrained environments.Drawing on Attachment Theory, Ecological Systems Theory, and Ambiguous Loss Theory, the studyconceptualizes maternal migration as a relational and ecological process rather than a singular economicevent. The findings highlight the coexistence of vulnerability and agency and underscore the importanceof context-sensitive interventions for children in migration-affected communities.