The Impact of Rural Migration on Social Structures and Community Life: A Sociological Investigation

Abstract

This study investigates the impacts of rural-to-urban migration on social structures and life at the community level in the rural regions of Pakistan. A quantitative study was undertaken, using a sample from 100 respondents queried using structured questionnaires. It focused on the impact of migration on family structure, socialization levels, and the level of involvement in the society at large. Survey respondents reported significant changes in family roles, particularly with respect to care giving and making key decisions; responsibilities were often assumed by women or elderly family members who stayed in the home country. Furthermore, 65% indicated an erosion of social cohesion in the sense that less community socializing and trust were in place. Respondents stated that community participation declined during the migration process for half of them. Economic contribution 70% of the participants reported an increase in household incomes resulting from remittances that migrants send. However, 20% felt financially unstable due to irregular remittances. This study finds that although remittances contribute to migration's economic benefits to rural families, they also disorganize traditional family arrangements and hamper community relationships. The policy recommendations need to facilitate social and economic restructuring that will strengthen the impact of migration to the rural areas of needs shift.