Expanding the family circle: Local in-law relationships and their role in supporting foreign spouses

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates the role of local families-in-law in the lives of foreign spouses from low-income, cross-national families in Singapore, focusing on their potential as a source of support for social integration and access to resources. Background: Foreign spouses in Singapore face challenges related to social integration and access to resources, and local in-law relationships have been identified as a potential source of support. Method: In-depth interviews with 18 Chinese-national foreign spouses were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Siblings-in-law were vital to foreign spouses, providing more emotional and practical support than parents-in-law. Local in-law relationships influenced foreign spouses' identification with locals, and the local in-laws' familiarity with local resources and networks facilitated access to formal and informal services, contributing to equitable outcomes. Conclusion: Local families-in-law play a critical role in the lives of foreign spouses in Singapore, especially siblings-in-law. The findings highlight the potential of local in-law relationships as a support system for cross-national families. Implications: The study's findings can inform policies and practices that support the well-being of cross-national families. Policymakers and practitioners should recognize the potential of local in-law relationships and develop programs to strengthen them.