Suchergebnisse

This study sought to understand the role of information technology (IT) in managing the conflicts of Filipinos in long-distance relationships (LDRs). Specifically, it aimed to know the conflicts Filipinos in LDRs usually experience, how these conflicts are managed with the help of IT, their conflict communication practices, and the values necessary for LDR maintenance. Ten Filipinos in LDRs were interviewed in depth. Results showed that the common conflicts identified by the study participants were on childrearing, failure to communicate on the appointed date and time, delayed and unsent text messages, the husband's drinking, and gossips related to the husband's alleged infidelity. IT was a big help in managing these conflicts because it allowed effective communication, with video telephony as the most preferred technology. According to the study participants, the personal characteristics that contribute to LDR maintenance are cool-headedness, self-control, patience, and humility.

The literature on interpersonal conflict management is already extensive and theories have been forwarded since the 1960s. However, these theories were created with proximal couples in mind. They do not address the situation of partners in long-distance relationships (LDRs). Thus, a grounded theory study was done among 10 Filipinos in LDRs. They were individually interviewed for about an hour per session and the interviews were transcribed. The transcriptions were then subjected to open coding, which yielded 18 open codes. During the selective coding, these were pared down to five categories. Their relationships were identified during the theoretical coding, which resulted in a grounded theory on conflict management in LDRs. This theory posits that the reason for the LDR; long-term relationship plans; communication practices; and the values, behaviors, and other attributes of the couple all shape long-distance conflicts. The computer-mediated communication technologies used by the long-distance couples were factors in relational maintenance.

The province of Albay in the Philippines is highly vulnerable to climatic and geologic hazards, but it has largely achieved its zero-casualty goal for the past two decades. In recognition of this achievement, the province has garnered numerous awards from international and national organizations. Past studies have identified Albay's success factors, but the role of communication has been overlooked. Thus, this research discusses the communication projects and protocols of Albay on disaster management. Data were obtained from interviews of key informants and examination of official documents. Results showed that the province's communication activities are assigned to specific persons, embedded in an early warning system, enacted using multiple media, supported by multiple stakeholders, and implemented under a strict protocol. These make Albay's disaster communication practices effective in attaining its zero-casualty goal during disasters.