A new study by Zahra Sharifonnasabi, Senior Lecturer in Marketing and Co-Director of the MINDS Research Group at Queen Mary University of London, sheds light on the link between “home” and psychological well-being for people who frequently move across countries.
The study, Home and Psychological Well-being in Global Consumer Mobility, explores how individuals who travel or relocate often—like expatriates, digital nomads, or frequent international travelers—create and experience different types of “home.” These findings offer important insights into how this impacts their mental well-being, sense of ownership, and identity.
What is Global Consumer Mobility?Global consumer mobility refers to a lifestyle where individuals frequently move across borders for work, study, or personal reasons. This group often faces unique challenges, such as adjusting to new cultures and living environments, which can affect how they feel about “home” and their psychological well-being.
Different Types of HomeThe study identified four main types of home, each with its own psychological benefits. These challenge the traditional idea of home as just one place:
These types of home reflect the fragmented and ever-changing nature of home in the lives of globally mobile individuals.
How People Cope with Global MobilityThe study also looked at how people manage the challenges of constantly moving. Many rely on resources in the marketplace—like services, brands, or even local businesses—to help make different places feel like home. These "commercial friendships" and familiar consumption habits play a crucial role in easing the mental strain of mobility.
One study participant, Adam, a consultant, shared his experience:
"I have a flat in London, which is my primary home. I spend about 60-70% of my time there. In Berlin, we have a house built in 1966 where my wife lives, and that’s my emotional home, where I want to retire. Dubai, where I work part-time, is just a place to get the job done. It can be challenging… It’s an isolated life in London or Dubai, as everyone is so focused on work. I’ve tried to connect more, like having coffee with a colleague or joining a choir. It helps."
What HR Professionals Can LearnThis research offers valuable takeaways for HR professionals managing internationally mobile employees:
Zahra Sharifonnasabi explains, "Our study challenges the traditional idea of home. It shows that home is more complex and multifaceted, especially for people who move frequently. These insights are crucial for understanding their well-being and helping HR professionals manage a mobile workforce."
The study redefines what "home" means in today’s world of constant mobility and offers practical ways to help people cope with the challenges it brings.
Read the full research paper published in the Journal for Consumer Psychology
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