Philippine E-Journals

Psychological Distress Among Runaway Female OFWs at Bahay Kalinga in Riyadh, KSA: A Basis for Intervention Program

Analyn R. Fernandez

 

Abstract:

The aim of this study is to explore and understand the manifestations of psychological distress through the written narratives of runaway female OFW at Bahay Kalinga in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Eight respondents recruited based on the criteria set, such as with age ranging from 24 to 55 years old and admitted at Bahay Kalinga. This study applied narrative research design, a literary form of qualitative study to obtain the in-depth understanding of manifestations of psychological distress among the respondents. Using purposive, convenient and snowball sampling techniques, the researcher was able to gather data from the respondents through their written narratives focusing on their work experiences while working as OFWs in KSA. Coding and analysis of collected data were conducted leading to the answers of the research questions. Data analyzed resulted in three main themes: 1) Manifestations of psychological distress among the respondents; 2) Maltreatment and 3) Benefits of Intervention Activities. The researcher analyzed these themes from the respondents’ written narratives through the theoretical lense of Pearlin’s Theory of Psychological Distress. The findings of this study served as basis for proposing an intervention program that will reduce the psychological distress among the runaway OFWs at Bahay Kalinga. Findings of the study explained that despite of government’s effort to ensure the safety and well-being of the Filipina domestic workers, cases of maltreatment still exist. Bahay Kalinga, with its crucial role in preparing the distressed OFWs for re-integration needs mental health professionals to undertake basic mental health services among the distressed OFWs. A workable mission and vision on the part of the government serves as the major step in uplifting the moral and social value of Filipina domestic workers, not only in Riyadh, KSA but in other parts of the globe as well.