Document Types
Paper Presentation
School Name
Berkeley School, Inc.
Track or Strand
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)
Astudillo, Alfonso III, B.
Start Date
25-6-2025 10:30 AM
End Date
25-6-2025 12:00 PM
Zoom Link/ Room Assignment
https://zoom.us/j/98424473252?pwd=FwXRu0YCoemsGlIoz7ItYRGwViiW46.1 Meeting ID: 984 2447 3252 Passcode: 483035
Abstract/Executive Summary
Globalization has significantly impacted education in the Philippines, notably with the influx of international students coming into the country for educational opportunities. This phenomenon has led to numerous studies examining the various aspects of their experiences, such as their cultural adaptation processes, academic difficulties, and economic contributions. However, their interpersonal relationships, particularly their more intimate connections, have been largely overlooked. This study aims to probe into this, focusing on the dynamics, navigation strategies, and external influences that shape these relationships. Utilizing both online and face-to-face interviews, as well as online surveys, the experiences of nine (9) intercultural couples, each of whom consisted of a foreign student and their Filipino partner, were gathered. Findings indicate that intercultural couples often encounter divergences in their cultural traditions and practices, courtship and relationship initiation norms, communication and language use, values and beliefs, and social and behavioral expectations. Nevertheless, it was observed that these differences also served as both a learning experience and a source of positive interactions rather than a mere catalyst for conflictual dynamics. To address these dynamics, couples primarily engaged in cultural exchanges, open communication and mutual respect, and expressions of care and affection. Furthermore, these couples predominantly had strong support systems and demonstrated self-determination and personal autonomy. Though some have also cited the absence of significant external influences, instances of societal judgement, racial discrimination, familial resistance, and peer pressure were frequently raised given the nature of the relationship.
Keywords
intercultural couple; relationship; dynamics; foreign student; Filipino
Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)
Living Culture and Contemporary Societies (LCS)
Initial Consent for Publication
yes
Statement of Originality
yes
Love Across Borders: A Qualitative Exploration of Cultural Dynamics in the Romantic Relationships of Foreign Students and their Filipino Partners
Globalization has significantly impacted education in the Philippines, notably with the influx of international students coming into the country for educational opportunities. This phenomenon has led to numerous studies examining the various aspects of their experiences, such as their cultural adaptation processes, academic difficulties, and economic contributions. However, their interpersonal relationships, particularly their more intimate connections, have been largely overlooked. This study aims to probe into this, focusing on the dynamics, navigation strategies, and external influences that shape these relationships. Utilizing both online and face-to-face interviews, as well as online surveys, the experiences of nine (9) intercultural couples, each of whom consisted of a foreign student and their Filipino partner, were gathered. Findings indicate that intercultural couples often encounter divergences in their cultural traditions and practices, courtship and relationship initiation norms, communication and language use, values and beliefs, and social and behavioral expectations. Nevertheless, it was observed that these differences also served as both a learning experience and a source of positive interactions rather than a mere catalyst for conflictual dynamics. To address these dynamics, couples primarily engaged in cultural exchanges, open communication and mutual respect, and expressions of care and affection. Furthermore, these couples predominantly had strong support systems and demonstrated self-determination and personal autonomy. Though some have also cited the absence of significant external influences, instances of societal judgement, racial discrimination, familial resistance, and peer pressure were frequently raised given the nature of the relationship.
https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2025/paper_lcs/12
