Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: ABSTRACT Objective This scoping review synthesizes research on family transformation in Zimbabwe (2010–present), mapping trends in family change, methodologies, and thematic foci. Background Zimbabwean families evolved due to socioeconomic crises, migration, and COVID‐19, necessitating changes related to caregiving, family resilience, and family dynamics. Method Using the Briggs framework, 72 peer‐reviewed articles, dissertations, and book chapters were analyzed to identify research designs and themes. Results Dominant themes include linkages between families and migration; marriage; caregiving; family resilience; COVID‐19 disruptions; and dysfunction displacing children/youth. Studies predominantly used qualitative methods, with urban geographic bias. Gaps persist in paternal roles, disability‐inclusive and non‐traditional families, and digital practices. Conclusion The review calls for methodological innovation (e.g., digital qualitative tools, AI) and addressing geographic and thematic imbalances to align with contemporary global family studies. Implications Future research should utilize SDGs (1.5 and 10) as a robust evaluative framework to study and mitigate structural family inequities, prioritize interdisciplinary collaboration, and target understudied virtual caregiving spaces to inform inclusive policies supporting vulnerable families.
Source: Family Relations
DOI: 10.1111/fare.70411
Authors: Gwenzi Getrude Dadirai, Sande Nomatter
Language: English
Subfield: Demography
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,590
OpenAlex ID: W7225646129