Kin and Kilometers: A Qualitative Study of Long-Distance Relationships from the Perspective of Transgenerational Theory

This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of couples in long-distance relationships (LDRs) from the perspective of Transgenerational (TG) Theory, a foundational theory in the Marriage and Family Therapy field. Semi-structured individual and conjoint interviews were conducted via web-based communication technology with six LDR couples who were separated due to the demands of work, school, or family care giving. Genograms were constructed in the first interview and used to discuss intergenerational relational patterns in the families of origin of the LDR partners. Eligible couples were those who had been together in the same geographic location for at least one year prior to beginning the LDR, and who had been in the LDR for at least a year.Aspects of TG Theory salient to these LDR couples were identified through analysis of the transcripts using phenomenological methods. Multigenerational patterns were found in the families of origin of participants in work-related travel and/or relocation, being independent, sharing a commitment to caring for the family of origin, and having a strong work ethic. Distance appeared to make some relational processes more overt. The majority of these LDR couples were involved in providing physical and/or financial support to members of their extended families. Families of origin were important sources of support for these LDR partners and couples. The LDR lifestyle allowed the couples and families to give and take relational support in a mutual cycle involving both families and the intimate partners. LDRs offered a way for them to fulfill multiple commitments to each other and their families while living and working in separate locations.Two core themes incorporating individual and relational processes also emerged from the analysis of interview transcripts. First, commitment and trust in the partnered relationship allowed participants to embark on an LDR. The recursive interaction of trust and commitment strengthened the relationship while partners were apart. Second, LDRs represented resilience for these couples, who set forth on LDRs after losses of jobs and/or dreams.

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy

Level thesis:degree_level

doctoral

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Akron

Year dc:date

2013

Author dc:creator

• Tejada, Laura J.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Perosa, Linda

• Families and Family Life
• Individual and Family Studies
• Personal Relationships
• Psychology
• long-distance relationships
• commuter relationships
• long-distance marriages
• commuter marriages
• couple relationships
• family relationships
• Transgenerational Theory
• Marriage and Family Therapy
• genograms
• phenomenology
• qualitative study

Statement dc:rights

• unrestricted
• This thesis or dissertation is protected by copyright: all rights reserved. It may not be copied or redistributed beyond the terms of applicable copyright laws.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1363377656

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:etd.ohiolink.edu:akron1363377656