Gendered division of capital accumulation among left-behind husbands of international migration: a systematic review

The feminization of migrant workers has positioned women as primary earners across nations, challenging traditional gender roles within migrant households while largely preserving existing patriarchal traditions. This study employs Bourdieusian frameworks of capital accumulation, particularly symbolic capital, to examine how left-behind husbands adapt to changing roles and household responsibilities at the intersection of gender, class, and cultural norms. Employing a PRISMA-based Systematic Literature Review, relevant publications indexed in Scopus, JSTOR, and PubMed from 2010 to 2025 were systematically selected. A total of 52 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed using narrative synthesis to identify recurring themes and conceptual patterns. The results demonstrate that established gender norms lead to an imbalance in domestic responsibilities. Wife migration often assumes the role of primary income provider; however, domestic tasks are culturally perceived as feminine, thereby inhibiting men from fully participating in household responsibilities. Husbands who assume domestic roles frequently face conflicting expectations of caregiving while also upholding their symbolic authority as heads of household, leading to feelings of inadequacy and social pressure. These tensions often appear as symbolic violence, which diminishes men’s identity. The study advocates implementing financial literacy and entrepreneurship training for left-behind husbands to enhance the sustainable use of remittances and reduce dependency. Future research should examine the long-term effects of these role shifts on gender dynamics in families and communities. Clinical trial number Not applicable.