Iconnect: The Role of Social Media in Communicative Behavior of Students with Absentee Parents

Abstract

The Philippines is among the countries where technology is on the rise and most adolescents devote much of their time. It serves as the new communication channel in this generation. It facilitates easy access to reach out to significant people across the world. It is a great help in the communication of young people whose loved ones are working in distant places. This study focused on the role of social media in the communication of students with their absentee parents. The key research question to probe is: what is the role of social medial in the communication of students with their absentee parents? Specifically, it looked into the difference on communication of children when their absentee parent is working abroad or is in a distant place and when the parent is present. These questions are explored using the data gathered from a survey questionnaire and focus group discussion of students under 14 to 15 years of age at Vinzons Pilot High School, Vinzons, Camarines Norte. The results showed that social media means so much to people and the communicative behavior of the children remains the same, despite physical distance. Qualitative data revealed such relevant functions of social media that facilitate the analysis of the communication of children whose parents are working in distant places. First, social media enhances the connection with family and friends. Second, they are used to talking about issues that are for family, school and social concerns. Lastly, social media, regardless of the application, is important, as it strengthens communication, despite the absence of the parents.