Migration Intentions through Dual Motivational Forces: Integrating Push–Pull–Mooring and Planned Behavior Approaches

Shiu-Wan Hung , National Central University

Population aging and fertility decline are reshaping demographic structures worldwide, intensifying reliance on international migration as a mechanism for labor replenishment and talent acquisition. While classical migration research highlights structural push–pull forces, recent evidence shows that migrants’ psychological evaluations determine whether favorable conditions lead to concrete mobility outcomes. To address this gap, this study proposes an integrated dual-motivation framework that combines the Push–Pull–Mooring (PPM) Model with the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to explain how external incentives and internal cognitive factors jointly shape international migration intention. A two-wave survey conducted between January and March 2024 yielded 390 valid responses from individuals with recent or planned cross-border migration experience. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to test eight hypotheses and four moderating effects. Results show that economic and social pull factors of destination countries significantly strengthen migration attitudes, while environmental pressure and family–peer influence in the place of origin also contribute. Attitude and cultural-adaptation confidence positively predict migration intention, whereas mooring factors (subjective norms) are not significant—suggesting declining constraints from place attachment in contemporary mobility. Age reduces the effect of cultural-adaptation confidence on intention, while higher disposable income strengthens the link between attitude and intention. These findings indicate that international migration emerges from the interaction of structural opportunity and psychological readiness. The study expands migration theory by integrating PPM and TPB, and offers policy implications for attracting and retaining international talent, emphasizing economic incentives, cultural-adaptation support, and differentiated assistance for low-income or older migrants.

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 Presented in Session P4. Migration, Migrants, and Mobility