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.
