Of getting in touch and get-togethers : narratives of Filipino transnational families

Date

4-2014

Degree

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

College

College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Christiansen D. Cabalug

Abstract

A qualitative study on Filipino Transnational Families focused on the processes which contribute to the maintenance of filial, parental, and spousal relationships across national borders. The hypotheses are adapted from the conceptual frameworks of separate studies. These frameworks are: the temporal dimensions of parent-child relationships in Roeters, van der Lippe, & Kluwers (2010) study of traditional families and the Care Triangle of Graham, et al (2012) in their study of transnational families. The general assumption generated is that the duration, frequency, and the types of stories shared during transnational communication, and the duration, frequency, and the quality of interactions during family reunifications jointly contribute in defining the quality of relationships between the migrant parent (MP), the left-behind child (LC), and the home parent (HP). This is illustrated by the researcher's Communication-Interaction Triangle. In-depth, semi-structured interviews on eight left-behind children and four home parents resulted to an affirmation of the framework. Further, the narratives revealed the resilient nature of family relationships. A supplementary photo-elicitation interview was conducted after the one-on-one interview. Gender and Socio-Economic Status were factored in as social structures affecting Filipino transnational families. In so far as the cases in this research are concerned, the gender of the migrant parent appeared to be of limited effect on the dynamics of getting in touch via transnational communication and getting together? through family reunification. On the other hand, the socio-economic status of the family as seen in their access and use of financial resources brought about by the employment of the migrant parent is shown to facilitate better means for transnational communication (ie. access to wi-fi and internet connection) and various activities during family reunification (ie. travels out of town and travels abroad). In the end, the resilience of family relationships as shown in the efforts to build and maintain closeness and intimacy is seen as a hopeful aspect in the different narratives and research on transnational families. Nevertheless, it is recognized that the economic benefits of migration continue to legitimize and justify having parents, children, husbands and wives live apart for long periods of time. The justification is palpable in the feelings of acceptance among family members and in the taking advantage of a myriad of ways of getting in touch and getting together.

Language

English

Call Number

LG 993.5 2014 S7 /Z35

Notes

status: in process

loc: UPLB Main Library Cataloging Section

Document Type

Thesis

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