Phenomenological Look at the Experiences of Filipina Correspondence or Internet Brides

Abstract

Studies on women’s experiences as correspondence or Internet brides that were conducted used survey instruments, interviews, and other tests created and normed on U.S. populations. This study specifically examined the experiences of Filipina women who have utilized an international dating agency or other venues to meet their husbands. It attempted to phenomenologically extract the essence of this population’s experiences as correspondence or Internet brides. Phenomenological analysis was conducted on the experiences of seven Filipina correspondence or Internet brides. Forty-four categories were determined and collapsed into eight broad themes: connection with the Filipino culture while acculturating to U.S. culture, negotiating the self, importance of family, correspondence experiences, connecting with her husband, resilience, betrayal, and the importance of one’s socioeconomic status . The women’s experiences were comparable with the previous literature, including the dichotomy with gender roles, the need to maintain harmony in their marital relationships, and maintaining a sense of independence.