Love Beyond the Lecture Hall: Lived Experiences of Married Couples Emerging from Teacher-Student Relationships
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.323Keywords:
Communication, Conflict Management, Emotional Development, Phenomenology, Student-Teacher Relationships, SustainabilityAbstract
This study examines the lived experiences of married couples whose relationships originated from a student-teacher context, focusing on how such relationships develop, transition, and are sustained over time. Anchored in Social Exchange Theory and Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love, the study utilized a qualitative hermeneutic-phenomenological design and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to explore meaning-making processes. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with three married couples residing in Laguna and Batangas, Philippines, who had at least five years of marital experience. Findings revealed that during the academic phase, participants maintained professional boundaries through secrecy and role differentiation due to institutional policies. Social stigma and age-related stereotypes led to emotional inconsistency and adaptive behaviors such as concealment and temporary separation. Over time, relationships evolved through increased openness, improved communication, and effective conflict management. Shared values, including mutual respect, family involvement, and faith, strengthened relational stability. Key turning points such as parenthood and life readiness influenced the transition to marriage, while love evolved into a form of long-term commitment and responsibility. The study concludes that resilience, emotional maturity, and ethical awareness are essential in sustaining such relationships. Recommendations emphasize the importance of maintaining boundaries, strengthening institutional policies, and supporting relational well-being through education and counseling. This study aligns with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by addressing emotional well-being, ethical practices, and institutional responsibility. It contributes to sustainability by promoting healthy relationships, strengthening ethical standards in educational environments, and supporting social and institutional stability.
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