Long term effects of separation on the children of overseas contract workers

ABSTRACT

This study was undertaken to consider the impact of migration on the relationship between the OFW and the family. The general objectives was to determine the long-term effects of separation from the OFW parent on children in two selected barangays with specific objectives: (1) to determine the psychiatric morbidity among children; (2) to determine their behavioral patterns; (3) to describe the demographic data of the said population. The design of the study was a cross-sectional survey done in 2 barangays with a high density of OFWs. The Reporting Questionnaire for Children (RQC) which is an instrument designed to screen psychiatric disturbances in children and adolescents less than 18 years of age was used. A total 385 children took part in the study. Results showed that adaptive and maladaptive modes of coping were utilized by the children left behind by parents.