LAY-OFF AND WELL-BEING: A Descriptive Study on the Psychological Well-being of Overseas Filipino Workers Residing in Metro Manila and Laid-off from Taiwanese Companies

Abstract

This study entitled, Lay-off and Well-being: A Descriptive Study on the Psychological Well-being of Overseas Filipino Workers Residing in Metro Manila and Laid-offfrom Taiwanese Companies aims to explore the impact on the psychological well-being of OFW’s who have been laid off from Taiwan. A Survey Questionnaire comprising two (2) parts namely, Socio-demographics and an adaptation of the 12-Item General Health Questionnaire translated to Tagalog was used as a quantitative measure to identify the impact of lay-off on the psychological well-being. Forty seven (47) OFWs selected through purposive sampling answered the survey. A focus group discussion consisting of seven (7) participants was done as a qualitative measure to explain how the factors affect the psychological condition of the OFWs. Statistical data from the survey questionnaire supported by accounts from the FGD assessed psychological well-being as the final objective of the study. Results showed that OFWs have high GHQ scores which seem to show psychological impairment. Findings of this study were consistent with foreign studies made by Kennedy (2002), Vinokur and Schul (2002) McKee-Ryan, et al. (2003) that in a lay-off experience coping resources as demographic, personal, social, financial, and time-structures affect the psychological well-being of individuals. Layoff negatively affects the psychological well-being of OFWs. Therefore, policies and programs aimed at protecting the OFWs from repatriation to reintegration in the society must be given importance. The study recommends further explorations on a nationwide coverage of samples, long-term effects of lay-off, and implementation of various programs and services such as training, counselling, and job search activities.