Parenting from a Distance: Impacts of Long Distance Parenting among Selected Filipino Adolescents in Metro Manila

Abstract

This study explores the concept of long-distance parenting and its impacts on the general well-being and relationships with the OFW parent/s and other family members, among selected Filipino adolescents in Manila. Fourteen adolescents aged 13-20 with one or both parents working as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) participated in an in-depth interview. The results indicate that the absence of one or both parents causes changes or rearrangements in the parenting ways or child-rearing inside the family. It paves a way for unconventional ways of child-rearing and management of the household and new roles and responsibilities for the adolescents and other family members. Because of the temporal and physical distance, the adolescents are not saved from feelings of loneliness and longing for their parents overseas. Rifts or gaps in family relationships are also inevitable. However, the study suggests that they are not greatly disadvantaged or affected in many areas of their well being. The adolescents learn to become more independent, responsible and mature in handling their lives. Moreover, they employ different coping strategies individually and as a family, which help them become well-adjusted to their situation. Support from their families left behind and peers helps the adolescents withstand the effects of separation. Communication through the various technological means also play a crucial role in maintaining and sustaining the family relationships. Moreover, it helps parents abroad exercise their parenting roles and duties from a distance.