Abstract:
Throughout history, there are certain gendered roles attached to a man and a woman. Society has
constructed ways and behaviors in which people are expected to act, think, and speak accordingly. Certain
activities and assignments are trusted to a specific gender. As society progressed, people become more
sensitive to this unequal treatment and role distribution and aware of the discrimination that both genders
are facing. With the shift in roles and norms, women were given a chance to uphold their rights and be
empowered in different ways.
It has been established that as societies become non-traditional and women become more
empowered, there may still be societies and people who find it difficult to adapt to these. In women
empowerment, especially regarding the autonomy of women, can be a factor in men choosing or being a
part of one’s relationship. Given this, the study aimed to explore how the perspective of male partners
towards women empowerment affect their partner relationship and preference. The study made use of a
phenomenology qualitative method with semi-structured interviews to Filipino male partners aged 20-40
years old, who are currently in a relationship for at least a year, and are residing in Metro Manila. The
data from the interviews was analyzed by grouping significant statements from the participants into
meaning units that lead to four themes namely: Concept of Women Empowerment Is Familiar,
Preconceived Gendered Roles Are No Longer Evident, Male Partners Accept The Changing View On
Women, The Empowered Empowers. The study will be relevant in providing a deeper understanding
regarding men’s views, specifically of the male partners, on women empowerment: their preference and
interaction in relationships, the understanding of experiences each other face; knowledge regarding
heterosexual relationships and women empowerment. This study will be able to gain a more in-depth look
into the mechanisms of men and their view on women empowerment and how it may affect their partner
relationship and preference. Standard ethical practice in the conduct of research was closely observed and
followed throughout the study.
