Consequences of geographic separation of partners during expatriation:The moderating effects of trust and virtual communication

Prior research has emphasized the important influence of the trailing family, especially the partner, on expatriate success. In contrast, little is known about the implications of relocating alone and leaving the partner back home, which is a reality for many expatriates today. Drawing on attachment theory, we developed and empirically tested a model that explains the effects of geographic separation during expatriation on depressive symptoms of both expatriates and their partners, leading to expatriates’ repatriation intentions, and eventual repatriation and reunion with their partners. Moreover, we argue that dyadic trust and the frequency of virtual communication between expatriates and partners can buffer the negative effects of geographic separation on the depressive symptoms of both partners and the actual repatriation of expatriates. To test our model, we conducted a sequential mixed methods approach, comprising a dyadic, multi-wave survey of 132 expatriates and their partners followed by 20 interviews with expatriates and their partners. Survey results provide strong support for our theoretical model. Findings from the follow-up interview study provide further insights into the reasons of relocation, depression and repatriation. We discuss our findings in the light of attachment theory and highlight the meaning of this novel theoretical perspective for expatriation and management research.