Uncovering Women's Strategies in Maintaining the Harmony of Long-distance Marriages and Nurturing Children

The phenomenon of long-distance marriage (LDM) is increasingly common in the era of globalization but it often leads to psychological distress, role conflict, and the risk of family disharmony. From the perspective of the Islamic law, LDM is allowed (jaiz) under certain conditions. However, there is no research that specifically examines women’s strategies in maintaining family harmony and educating children when husbands work or study in distant places. This study fills this gap by focusing on the experiences and adaptive strategies of women in Gunung Pelindung Sub-district, East Lampung. Using a qualitative case study approach with seven informants, this research reveals women’s adaptive strategies including intense communication through technology, conflict and financial management, increased spirituality, self-care, fulfilment of inner sustenance, community support, and creative approaches in educating children. The findings highlight the crucial role of communication, social support, and individual resilience. The implications of this research include the need for policies that are more responsive to LDM families and a deeper understanding of contemporary family dynamics in the context of globalization.