The Consequences of Overseas Employment of Parents on the Educational Success of Filipino Children

Marie Joy B. Arguillas, Cornell University
Lindy Williams, Cornell University

Using data from the Philippines, we examine the consequence of overseas employment of parents on the educational success of children 10-21 years old. We analyze data from a survey conducted in four primary overseas contract worker (OCW) sending areas. Respondents in this study were children for whom one or both parents had been overseas for at least three consecutive years. Children for whom neither parent was overseas were likewise interviewed. Children who had one or both parents abroad, but whose parents had left more recently were not included in the study. Our research questions are as follows: Are there differences in the educational success of children who grow up in households in which one or both parents are OCWs? Are school-related parenting practices different in these types of households? What coping strategies do different families adopt? This study seeks to contribute to our understanding of the consequences of overseas employment of parents on the well-being of children.