International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care
Volume 6, Issue 2, 2010, Pages 15-30

Stress and coping among migrant labourers in urban Vietnam: An adaptation cycle and health vulnerabilities (Article)

Van Huy N.* , Dunne M.P. , Debattista J. , An D.T.M.
  • a Faculty of Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Viet Nam, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Australia
  • b School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Australia
  • c Brisbane Sexual Health and HIV Service, Metronorth Health Service District, Australia
  • d Faculty of Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Viet Nam

Abstract

Rural-urban migration continues to grow in many developing countries including Vietnam. The experience of stress and coping associated with this process may vary for people from different circumstances. However, there has been little research on migrants to date. This study adopts a qualitative approach to research on unregistered, male, migrant freelance labourers in urban Vietnam and to explore factors contributing to stress and coping among this population. The study revealed an array of stressors related to migrants' life experiences in urban space, including physical, financial and social factors. Coping was diverse, including problem-focused coping (PFC) and emotion-focused coping (EFC), pro-social and anti-social, active and passive. Less active and anti-social coping appeared common. Together, weak social network and lack of support from formal systems placed coping and adaptation in a cyclic relationship. The results highlight a multi-disciplinary approach to help cope and adapt effectively for these men. © Pier Professional Ltd.

Author Keywords

Vietnam Rural-urban migration Stress Grounded theory Coping Indepth interview Migrant labourer Adaptation

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-78449307206&doi=10.5042%2fijmhsc.2010.0607&partnerID=40&md5=e7ff768244368f7688514b7895eae761
DOI: 10.5042/ijmhsc.2010.0607
ISSN: 17479894
Cited by: 6
Original Language: English