Generation Z: Concept of Masculinity in Courtship Discourse

The concept of masculinity has various meanings based on Filipino thought, which is also associated with the man having his own family, the foundation of society, making it essential to strengthen relationships, especially for parents that starts during courtship. Courtship is vital in the country’s culture, but it has changed due to modern technology leading to the rise of online dating. In Generation Z, it is typical to quickly start and end relationships, which has a negative impact on couples born from online dating and to their children. On the other hand, some studies also prove its positive effects on couples. In this research, using the transcendental phenomenological approach, ten participants were chosen through purposive sampling. They underwent in-depth interviews, and after thematic analysis, the results showed that courtship has different meanings based on the participants’ experiences; the character of the woman being courted is most important to them; courtship is still divided into traditional and modern methods; and when rejected, men must accept and respect it. Based on the results, the researchers were able to provide conclusions and recommendations needed for further research.