Gender, transnational communication, and aspiration for future overseas work among OFW children

Abstract

This paper explores gender differences in transnational communication between Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) parents and the children they left behind. Using survey data, it looks at how frequency of communication using Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) mutually familiarizes parents and children with each other’s activities. ICTs also serve as tools allowing OFWs to do parenting even though they are far away. We argue that this connectedness motivates children’s future aspiration to work overseas. Results indicate gender differences between daughters and sons in their frequency of communication with their parents, particularly via mobile phones. Daughters also report stronger connectedness with parents. In general, children who are more connected with their OFW parents are also more likely to share thoughts of working abroad, and express this as a life goal.