Exploring the Romantic Relationships and Coping Strategies of Filipino Young Adults Whose Parents Committed Infidelity
Ann Charlotte L. Magpantay1, Teresita T. Rungduin2, Maria Bianca Sophia Jaslyn L. Basan3
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7252-42751, https://orcid.org/0009-0000-4846-20853
magpantay.acl@pnu.edu.ph1, rungduin.tt@pnu.edu.ph2, basan.mbsjl@pnu.edu.ph3
Philippine Normal University
Ermita, Manila, Philippines1-3
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54476/ioer-imrj/867922
ABSTRACT
Filipino young adults whose parents committed infidelity often experience changes in perceptions about relationships, love, and marriage. Their parents’ infidelity reduces their ability to trust and develop commitment issues which hinder them from experiencing romantic relationships, yet, the influence of parental infidelity on Filipinos is not widely studied and considered. Hence, this study explored the influences of parental infidelity on Filipino young adults’ romantic relationships and their coping strategies. The researcher used a qualitative case study method and snowball sampling of six participants aged 18-25. Data were collected through online interviews. Findings showed that parental infidelity changes their perception of relationships and marriage, making it difficult to maintain relationships and be open to people. Participants also cope with their experiences through topic avoidance, isolation, and non-suicidal self-injury. This study provided evidence that the influence of parental infidelity on young adults is irreversible and long-lasting, and they have to bear it for the rest of their lives. The results of this study offer valuable insights into the creation of programs that might mitigate the negative influences of parental infidelity on the romantic relationships of young people and give them the chance to learn more effective coping mechanisms as they navigate through their experiences.
Keywords: Coping Strategies, Parental Infidelity, Romantic Relationships, Family Studies, Philippines