THE MIGRATION, WORKING, LIVING AND INTEGRATION EXPERIENCES OF IMMIGRANT LIVE-IN CAREGIVERS IN ONTARIO, CANADA

Abstract

This thesis aims to fill in the gaps in our knowledge of the experiences of immigrant live-in caregivers in Canada as a means to better understand the role of social networks and how this is informed by intersectionality theory. More specifically, based on 34 qualitative interviews with current and former live-in caregivers, this dissertation explores the migration, working, living and integration experiences of immigrant live-in caregivers in Ontario, Canada. In particular, I focus on: 1) their experiences with processes of decision making, migration and finding a job with a particular focus on role of social networks in these processes; 2) the impact of the type of care on live-in caregivers’ working and living experiences as well as the role of networks in the process of their adaptation to life in Canada; and 3) their integration experiences (with a particular focus on role of social networks in these processes). Although some researchers relied on some sociological perspectives in their studies focusing on live-in caregivers in Canada, none of the previous studies used these in conjunction with social network theory. My research shows that while social network theory is useful in considering the role of social networks in migration, living and integration experiences of LCP workers, it is not sufficient to come to a complete understanding of these issues. On the basis of my findings, I conclude that one should combine social network theory and intersectionality when exploring such issues with regards to not only LCP workers in particular, but also immigrant workers in general. By bringing such new empirical and theoretical insights, my dissertation contributes to the body of previous research on experiences of LCP workers in Canada and more broadly to the literature on domestic workers in an international context, immigration research focusing on social networks and sociological theory.