📄 Abstract
Separation anxiety is a global concern. This study explored the experiences of Filipino teachers teaching abroad who faced family separation anxiety. Using a qualitative-phenomenological approach, data were gathered by interviewing 10 participants, who were selected via snowball sampling. Findings revealed three major themes: threatening events, attachment figures that provide a sense of security, and proximity-seeking behaviors. Corresponding sub-themes included experiencing emotional distress, worrying their family succumbed to problems, and feeling homesickness; providing for the family's needs, personal growth and independence, communication as emotional support; family's strength inspires resilience, building a strong bond through genuine friendships, and prayer overcomes challenges; and handling one's emotions, getting agitated if calls are not responded, seeking ways to relieve mental strain, and adjusting to a new culture. Quantitative research will be conducted to test the mediating role of attachment figures in family separation stress and proximity-seeking behavior, and the identified themes will be used as indicators. Support programs for Filipino teachers abroad are recommended.
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📚 How to Cite:
Rico R. Magsigay , THE PLIGHT OF OVERSEAS EDUCATIONAL HEROES AMID FAMILY SEPARATION: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY , Volume 11 , Issue 5, may 2025, EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR) , DOI: https://doi.org/10.36713/epra21481