“Boundary Blurring and Crossing within Networks: Implications of Network Structure for Immigrant Inclusion”
Discussant: Ilana Ventura

Abstract:

Interpersonal ties between natives and immigrants have long been envisioned as the keystone in the arch of immigrant integration, yet scholars infrequently analyze the implications of contextual network structure for integration. Whereas existing studies typically focus on immigrants’ individual-level ties to natives or to co-ethnics, this study considers two features of native-immigrant network structure: native-immigrant mixing and interethnic ties to immigrants that are widely interspersed rather than concentrated. First, this study draws on theories of ethnic boundaries to differentiate between these two features of network integration. Then, using data on friendships in Western European classroom contexts, this study shows that we can expect the strongest symbolic inclusion of immigrants when network integration resembles boundary blurring (aggregate mixing with interspersion), rather than boundary crossing (aggregate mixing without interspersion). Patterns that resemble boundary blurring are linked to a smaller gap in identification with countries of residence between natives and immigrants and suggest relatively stronger support for immigrant cultures among natives. In contrast, patterns that resemble boundary crossing imply weaker benefits for inclusion, even for those immigrants who “cross” the boundary. The article concludes with recommendations for how future research should continue advancing knowledge on network integration in increasingly diverse societies.