Navigating Financial Support Disconnect: Exploring the Lived Experiences of Seafarers in Fulfilling Family Support Obligations

This study explores the lived experiences of Filipino seafarers in fulfilling their obligation to provide family support. This study specifically focuses on providing financial support for sustaining essential needs. Guided by Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behavior (1991), the study explores how the attitude, family expectations, and perceived behavioral control is affected in their ability to fulfill support obligations. Using phenomenological qualitative method, data were gathered from seafarers to capture their perspectives of family support, the expectations placed upon them, and the challenges they encountered during periods at sea and on vacation. The findings reveal that misalignments among the three theoretical components may lead to financial disconnect, influencing family dynamics. The study highlights implications for understanding the pressures faced by seafarers and the need for broader support mechanisms to strengthen family well-being.