In Search of Mr. Right: Life Stories of Filipinas in Interracial Marriages

Abstract

This study documents the life stories of Filipinas in interracial marriages. It involves an in-depth and comprehensive analysis of their experiences, perceptions and situations. In particular, this study seeks to explore their diverse experiences in their marriage and their motivations for entering an interracial relationship. The narrative research design was used in the study to obtain their life stories through life story telling which allowed participants to contribute as much information as they want. An indepth, semi-structured interview was also used to enable the researcher to probe on their responses to ensure that all objectives were satisfied. There were 7 participants who shared their life stories to provide a deeper understanding of the experiences of Filipinas in interracial marriages. The study concluded that the perceptions and experiences of Filipinas in Interracial marriages are diverse and highly influenced by their specific situations. Their individual perceptions (personal goals & ideal partner), social conditions (migration, modernization & stigmatization) and cultural influences (family approval & cultural adjustments) affect the quality and success of an interracial marriage.These three factors interact in order to make the relationship work. The study also found that there are numerous interconnected factors (personal, social, cultural) that have influenced these Filipina women in their decision to marry outside of their own race. Although certain patterns arise in their responses, no single explanation regarding their motivation for entering an interracial marriage would be universally applicable to all situations. Furthermore the study reveals that there are both positive and negative sides to interracial marriages. Although there has been a greater acceptance of Interracial marriages in society, stigmatization and negative stereotypes towards Filipinas married to foreigners still exist in present Philippine society.