Social Suffering and Healing Among Migrant Labourers: A Qualitative Study of the Informal Sector

The book uncovers the nuances of the lives of unskilled migrant labourers in India. The qualitative approach, along with the social constructivist paradigm and ethnographic fieldwork demonstrates the nature of scientific inquiry carried out in this work. The data analysis methods supporting the narratives will not only help readers understand the experiences of the migrant communities but will also facilitate a bond of empathy with the participants.

Taking a bottom-up approach, the book explores how migrant labourers’ suffering, and their sense of wellbeing are deeply embedded in their existing surroundings. It throws light on the numerous communities across the world that are at high risk of developing mental health related problems due to existing socio-political conditions.

The book will be useful to the students, researchers, and teachers of Sociology, Social Work, Anthropology, Psychology, Political Science, Economics, Public Policy and Administration. It will be especially be useful to mental health professionals, social workers and NGOs engaging with migrant or other marginalized communities.

Sangeeta Yadav has completed her Doctoral dissertation for Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur. Her doctoral work was on the Mental Health of the Unskilled Migrant Labourers in India. She has published research papers in many nationally and internationally reputed journals. Currently she is working as an Associate Professor in Jindal School of Psychology and Counselling, Sonipat.