Living Apart, Legally Bound: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Experiences of Legally Married but Separated Individuals in the Philippines

Abstract

This study examined how legally married yet separated individuals in the Philippines interpret their experiences in a context where divorce is not an option. Using a qualitative framework grounded in Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, the study investigated the emotional, financial, and social circumstances of six participants from the Philippines. The discussion illustrates how Rational Choice Theory (RCT) elucidates the decision-making process individuals undergo when evaluating the costs and benefits of divorce. The results indicated that separation frequently followed persistent issues, including abuse, emotional exhaustion, infidelity, and the progressive deterioration of communication and mutual respect. Participants articulated the challenges posed by social stigma, financial hardship, and legal ambiguity, especially regarding annulment and legal separation, which many impacted individuals perceived as arduous, expensive, and inadequate. Their narratives indicate that choices regarding separation were influenced by a meticulous evaluation of individual welfare in relation to familial obligations, religious convictions, and financial constraints. Even with these limits, participants found strength in their faith, the support of their families, and a growing sense of independence. Some individuals still did not want to get divorced for moral or religious reasons, while others saw it as a necessary legal way to end bad marriages and start over. The study emphasizes the critical need for accessible legal reforms informed by the lived experiences of affected individuals to tackle systemic barriers and promote individual well-being.