Philippine E-Journals

Muslim Children of Divorce Families: Exploring Their Perceptions and Experiences

Daisy Jane C. Orcullo

Discipline: Social Science, Family and Relationships, Culture

 

Abstract:

This study aimed to describe and explore the experiences and perceptions of children of divorce families. A qualitative phenomenological approach was used to provide depth understanding on 1.) children experiences on parental divorce, 2.) the impact and effects of divorce, 3.) their perceptions on marriage and divorce, 4.) whether Islamic practices have helped them cope with the experience. In-depth interview with semi-structured questionnaire were tools in the study. The interviews were analyzed using inductive analysis. Data were transcribed and analyzed to identify themes generated from the interview. From the analysis effects of divorce were identified as internalizing effects, externalizing effects, and mediating effects. As the exploration and understanding of each frame go deeper and become more personal, various concepts emerge. The internalizing effects employ the direct approach of lived experiences, which were categorized into inciting negative reactions and continuing impact of divorce. The second frame on externalizing effects uses the indirect approach that results in providing risks and eliciting some positive effects. The last frame on mediating effects combined the direct and indirect approaches and revealed the coping and healing strategies and perceptions on family and divorce. The Islamic perspective on coping was a comfort to some of the participants.