This research set out to examine the influence of household relations and responsibilities, and
transitions to adulthood on rural-urban youth migration to Hanoi. Rural-urban youth migration was
placed and studied within the context of (rural) households, and conceptualized as a household
livelihood strategy. Particularly, aspirations and incentives for migration, and influence of household
roles and responsibilities, on shaping rural-urban youth migration were examined. Alongside these
objectives, potential associations between the concept of transition to adulthood, and rural-urban youth
migration were considered. Both labour migration and migration for education were involved.
Perceptions of young migrants in Hanoi and left-behind parents in rural areas, regarding these research
topics and concepts were gathered and analysed. The qualitative research intended to stay close to the
stories of respondents, and examined their perceptions, behaviours, and feelings, within the context of
their daily lives and activities.
Several research methods were employed. Individual in-depth interviews (semi-structured) with
migrants and parents was the dominant method. The other methods included a focus group discussion,
and questionnaire-survey to gather personal and familial background information. In total 28 migrants
and 12 parents were included.
Familial influences on lives and decisions of young migrants are strong. Financial support for
households appeared as a general key incentive for rural-urban migration. However, personal
aspirations were often also involved. Generally young migrants balanced household obligations and
personal ambitions. In this regard migration was also perceived as a pathway towards better futures.
Migration delayed entries into marriage and parenthood. While the autonomy of migrants increased,
they simultaneously stayed connected to their household through financial transfers and household
obligations. Overall, rural-urban migration functioned as a bridge between migrants’ new households
and natal households in rural hometowns.