Across The Ocean, But Not Apart: How Fathers at Sea Can Use Technology to Strengthen Relationships with Their Children

Abstract

Seafarers are often away from their families, and the internet could help them stay in touch off the coast. Constant communication is the key to fostering relationships, and seafarers may enhance their bonds with their kids while they are aboard through the Internet. The study aimed to determine the impact of the internet on seafarers' relationships with their children. The five Filipino seafarers who responded using convenience sampling in the province of Iloilo had at least five years of experience on board with children. Moreover, this is qualitative research where data was gathered through narrative inquiry and analyzed using interpretive and thematic analysis. The results showed how important internet access onboard is. Seafarers expressed that the utilization of the internet is advantageous in resolving problems, helps show affection to their children, and helps them feel at home even if they are on board, thereby romoting family connectedness. The internet was one of the reasons that assisted seafarer’s in maintaining their long-term career status. These contributing factors made it possible for seafarers to communicate through social media and virtual relationships, which helped them, feel that they were close to their families. While on board, they were able to strengthen their bond with their child or children via the Internet.