An Extension on Psycho-Socio-Cultural Model in Relocation Studies: A Sociological Analysis – Evidence from Dodoma in Tanzania

Abstract

This study extends the use of psycho-socio-cultural (PSC) dimension model which goes far beyond its limited application to resettlement and displacement in development-induced projects. In extending its use, involuntary job relocation also changes routine culture of the relocatees into dissonant culture, which then transforms them into a different routine culture. In PSC model perspective, it is unlikely that pre-displacement, here being referred as relocation, will be recovered, let alone reestablish, in which it will take time. Although irreversible, there are strategies that could be adopted by the relocatees to cope, adapt and adjust to the newly relocated region, however, it is not guaranteed to be defined as complete recovery of the relocation. Therefore, the use of PSC model in relocation studies is paramount in understanding the restoration struggles of the livelihood, family and work experience of the relocated government officials dual career couples (RGO-DCC) due to unforeseen changes of relocation that caused the relocatees to be relocated and leave their families behind, therefore, disintegrated their social networking and other cultural surroundings. In determining how well the capital city relocation considered the livelihood of the RGO-DCC (post-relocation), it is significant to address the fundamental aspects of psycho-socio-cultural of the relocatees before relocation. Lastly, the outcome of this study highlights how PSC model is suitable to relocation studies to justify the extension of its application beyond resettlement and displacement development-induced projects.