Apjeas-2019 6 1 08
Apjeas-2019 6 1 08
Apjeas-2019 6 1 08
1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Abstract – This study aimed to assess the seafarers’ problems such as language barrier, group formation etc.
distress and coping mechanism as they faced their lives All these factors along with the reducing number of crew
working in seafaring. Specifically, it sought to identify members on board ships have been one of the main
then profile of the response in terms of age, gender, civil reasons for increase in physical and psychological stress
status, position, length of years onboard, and income; on board ships [1].
identify the factors that caused distress among seafarers The seafarers are independently doing their job
in terms of physical, emotional, psychological, social because the work environment of seafaring needs
aspect, personality traits, physical factors, and personal different manpower and skills in order to be a success in
reason; determined the coping mechanism they used in maritime industry. Furthermore, the seafarers were
terms of personality traits, physical factors, and personal competent in doing their designated jobs because they
reason; test the significant difference and factors group need to fulfil their responsibility and obligations as
according to profile; and propose an action plan based seafarers. They are dedicated and hardworking so that
on the result. The study made use of descriptive and they will earn for their family [2].
utilized an adapted questionnaire which was partially The Cruise Line Operations in Culinary Arts Program
modified and distributed among 24 cruise line and Cruise Line Operations in Hotel Services Program is
operations graduate currently onboard. It was found out a Bachelor of Science Degree Program that provides the
that majority of the respondents are single 18- 35 years knowledge and skills necessary for the students to ensure
old males, working as staff for 1-3 years and earning efficiency and to prepare the students to be supervisor in
40,000-60,000 agreed that factor such as physical the Cruise Line industry. The program is designed in
oppressiveness, long absence from work, high level of two-depth areas in the Cruise Line Operations:
stress and long and unsociable working hours that operations and management, which is to prepare students
caused distress when they are on board. They always for employment in a variety of hotel positions in the
cope with distress in terms of personal reason, physical growing cruise line operations [3].
factors, and personality traits. There is significant However, even they are working in a work
difference on factors that caused distress as to environment they are accustomed and prepared for, they
psychological when grouped according to position. still feel different stress and distress that could and may
Examination to assess the seafarer’s coping mechanism affect their performance and productivity as competent
before deployment may prevent future problems. seafarers. They have the sense of leadership and adapt
Keywords – Seafarers, Distress, Coping Mechanism the environment through good communication as the key
survival techniques. They can communicate with co-
INTRODUCTION employees since Filipinos are known to be good
Life at sea is a very critical aspect of the work communicator and conversationalists. Knowing how to
environment of seafarers. Stories of distressed seafarers solve problems (and not problem-blame or problem-
getting much needed assistance from cruise ships are avoid), plus the ability to thrive under pressure, make one
commonplace. Negligible social life, monotonous a valued seafarer [4].
routines, and harsh working conditions are some of the The concept of distress and coping mechanism has
many difficulties faced by seafarers on board ships. This been addressed many times, and advancement in
leads to both physical and psychological stress. communication technology was also established to help
Maximum of the shipping companies employ the coping strategies of seafarers, there are still factors
multinational crew, which brings along its own set of that is not emphasized by different studies regarding the
76
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
distress experienced by them. This study will benefit Participants
many people, especially the seafarers who themselves The participants of the study were 24 Cruise line
are the ones experiencing such events. By conducting Operations Graduates of Lyceum of the Philippines
this study, the seafarers will be able to identify their University who are currently working as seafarers. The
strengths and weaknesses while working on-board. This researchers sought help from Alumni Office of Lyceum
will benefit the University for it can provide insights of of the Philippines University which has the data about
cruise line industry and what programs may be cruise line operations graduates working on board.
developed to enhance the competitiveness of students.
This will help the CITHM, since they are integrating Instrument
cruise line industry to their curriculum, then being The instrument of the study was an adapted
knowledgeable about distress experienced at sea will questionnaire from the study of Survival Characteristics
allow them make support and plan of action to prepare as Perceived by The Experienced Seafarers [1] that is
cruise line operations students about this in the future. partially modified for part II from different studies which
Further, this will be beneficial to the faculty and was composed of three parts. The first part of the
instructors for it may give insights on how the cruise line questionnaire identified the profile of the respondents in
environment may affect the performance of the seafarers terms of age, gender, civil status, position, length of years
when they are on-board. The cruise line operations on-board and income. The second part of the
students will learn many things in this study, especially questionnaire include the factors that caused distress
about the stress and coping strategies that they may among seafarers in terms of physical, emotional,
employ when they encountered different distress. The psychological, and social aspect. And the third part of the
researchers may use this study as future reference in case questionnaire determined the coping mechanism they use
they wanted to align their study in seafaring distress and in terms of personality traits, physical factors and
coping mechanism. personal reasons.
78
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The respondents have been on-board for 1 – 3 years practice safety management procedures. And the
with 16 or 66.7 percent, followed by below 1 year with 6 necessity for other studies to be conducted may affect the
or 25.0 percent and 4 – 6 years with 2 or 8.3 percent. This work schedules, changes and lifestyle of seafarers may
implies that the respondents are new in the seafaring life lead also to distress [11].
and they are starting to get accustomed to the profession
they chose. Further, they experience the life at sea and Table 2. Factors that Caused Distress as to Physical
can identify the hazards and distress that a seafarer is Indicators WM VI Rank
experiencing. 1. The conditions of sea during
The ship is a unique environment in that it is not only transport and the possible 3.17 Agree 2.5
a place of work but at the same time a home to seafarers accident that will occur
working on board. Working on ships entails seafarers’ 2. Long term implications of the
job such as exposure to toxic
absence for a long period away from home. This situation
and carcinogenic materials that 3.17 Agree 2.5
and other conditions on board such as the weather and is responsible for many chronic
the crewing arrangement may compound the situation of illness
seafarers aboard ship. Seafarers who are part of the 3. Physical hazards on board ship
shipboard and marine industry are facing different (include noise, vibration,
3.04 Agree 4
challenges when it comes to controlling crisis due to the excessive heat and cold and
operation of vessels and cruise ship. They need harmful radiation from the sun).
information and abilities to function at a high level since 4. Physical oppressiveness due to
there are always existing dangers when they are on-board shortage of manpower due to 3.25 Agree 1
which cause problems of people at shore [1]. less crew members
5. Unpleasant work conditions and
Based on their income, majority are earning 40,001 – 2.96 Agree 5
frequent calling at ports
60,000 with frequency of 12 or 50.0 percent, followed by Composite Mean 3.12 Agree
20,001 – 40,000 with 7 or 29.2 percent, and the least is Legend: 3.50 – 4.00 = Strongly Agree; 2.50 – 3.49 = Agree; 1.50 –
20,000 and below with 2 or 8.3 percent. This means that 2.49 = Disagree; 1.00 – 1.49 = Strongly Disagree
the respondents are compensated well and are earning
enough to provide support to their families. It shows that the item “physical oppressiveness due to
One of the motivational factors why students took shortage of man power due to less crew members” got
maritime and cruise line program is due to the income the highest weighted mean of 3.25 followed by the item
opportunity it provides. When the seafarer is on-board, “the conditions of sea during transport and the possible
he/she is being compensated enough to encourage them accident that will occur”, and “long term implications of
to work at sea which is somehow life threatening and the job such as exposure to toxic and carcinogenic
hazardous environment. Further, maritime industry is materials that is responsible for many chronic illness”
known for homesickness that hinders them to acquire with 3.17 and verbally interpreted as agree.
employees who will work for a long time. So, it is only The respondents agreed that physical oppressiveness
right that they are rewarded enough to fill in all the is the cause of main distress due to limited number of
sacrifices and hardship of being on-board [10]. crew compared to the number of tasks they need to finish.
Table 2 presents the factors that caused distress as to This leads to many overtimes that make them exhausted
physical which obtained the composite mean of 3.12 and and reduce the time of sleep and rest. And since they are
verbally interpreted as agree. staying on-board, even they have rest days; the
It means that the respondents agreed that physical environment is still the same.
factors can lead to distress while they are working on- The physical environment of the ship and its design
board. The physical factors are the place and can impact the everyday activities of the seafarers and
environment where they are working and can make them cause by shortage of manpower that need more overtime
feel distress and not comfortable while doing their job. for the staff and crewmembers. The design of the ship
Further, the conditions of work environment in the and its accommodation has lesser attention in many
ship are different based on the country it belongs to. As studies which lead to high level of impact to the seafarers
cruise ships continue to become larger and accidents [12].
continue to be reported here in the Philippines, people are While the item “physical hazards on board ship
left to wonder what exactly is being done to better train (include noise, vibration, excessive heat and cold and
crewmembers in the event of an emergency at sea or in harmful radiation from the sun) with weighted mean of
port. They sometime experience problems as they 3.04 and the least is “unpleasant work conditions and
79
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
frequent calling at ports” with 2.96 and verbally The respondents identified that the most emotional
interpreted as agree. distress they encounter is homesickness and long
The level of adaptation of people towards their work absence from home because of being on-board for long
and working environment can affect the level of distress time of travel. The sea travel is too long, and they are
they experience. Every time that the cruise ship needs to required to stay within the same environment for months
stay in ports, the seafarers needs to coordinate with the without seeing their family and friends.
port authority and deal with different culture which can Those Filipino seafarers who are working as seafarer
sometimes lead to distress. experience long time being isolated in the sea since they
spend months on-board without seeing any land or places
Table 3. Factors that Caused Distress as to Emotional tend to be at risk for mental problems. The people who
Indicators WM VI Rank are not engage in such profession such the families,
1. Long absence from home/ relatives and friends are the most priorities of seafarers.
3.17 Agree 1
homesickness Their emotional quotients have been tested for many
2. Exposure to accident, worst times and must have self-efficacy to improve their
cases leading to deaths of 2.88 Agree 5 behaviours towards their profession and life at sea [14].
colleagues
The long absence from home made the seafarers unable
3. Problems about how to maintain
family and personal relationship to communicate with the families, friends or significant
3.13 Agree 2 others may cause problems and conflicts among human.
during period of absence and on
return Furthermore, enhance communication skills and being
4. There is a feeling of threat and effective conversationalist can help people to clarify
danger due to unavailability of information or reduce the risk for miscommunication.
2.92 Agree 3.5
necessary provision of safety Communication continuum can be the best strategy for
equipment good communication practices so no conflict will
5. Being responsible towards the possibly occur due to miscommunication [9].
crew members due to While the item “there is a feeling of threat and danger
2.92 Agree 3.5
dissatisfied facilities provided
due to unavailability of necessary provision of safety
on board
Composite Mean 3.00 Agree
equipment”, and “being responsible towards the crew
Legend: 3.50 – 4.00 = Strongly Agree; 2.50 – 3.49 = Agree; 1.50 – members due to dissatisfied facilities provided on board”
2.49 = Disagree; 1.00 – 1.49 = Strongly Disagree with weighted mean of 2.92 while the least is “exposure
to accident, worst cases leading to deaths of colleagues”
Table 3 presents the factors that caused distress as to with weighted mean of 2.88 and verbal interpreted as
emotional, which obtained the composite mean of 3.00 agree.
and verbally interpreted as agree. Further, the respondents agreed that being on-board
This means that the respondents agreed that exposed them to accidents which sometimes lead to
emotional distress are experienced while they are on- death among colleagues that became a phobia or distress
board because of being away from their way of living, to some seafarers. It was hard to handle simple stress,
families and relatives and being part of culture that is more so being faced with accident or death of co-workers
new to them. because of the impact it brings. The mere presence of
The Philippine Online Chronicles found out that the these accidents can affect the behaviour of co-worker
OFWs are experiencing mental problems due to which may lead to anxiety and fear for themselves.
emotional stresses as they work abroad and away from Accident hazards occur within the seafaring
their relatives for long time period. Those seafarers who environment which is almost 20 times greater than other
are designated in cargo and tanker are usually isolated in occupations. Among these are the unintentional
the sea for several months which has a large impact on accidents that occur in the ship that might lead to
the mental health. These have been the focus of the disabilities, worst death. The most common damages
seafaring organizations [13]. caused by shipboard accidents are related to limbs,
It shows that the item “long absence from home/ fingers and feet. Minor injuries include trips, falls, cuts
homesickness” got the highest weighted mean of 3.17 and burns which is considered as inevitable especially
followed by “problems about how to maintain family and when the sea is rough. Some would even think that the
personal relationship during period of absence and on causes of such incidents are irrelevant trainings and
return” with weighted mean of 3.13. insufficient knowledge among seafarers [15].
80
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Table 4. Factors that Caused Distress as to are in the same environment during work period and rest
Psychological day. Since they are on-board and do not have the access
Indicators WM VI Rank to other places for rest and leisure time, they are distress
1. Prevalence of low pay that with the actual environment of seafaring.
could lead to dissatisfaction to The hazards in seafaring are the noise, temperature,
2.83 Agree 4
work and frequent absent from radiation, radio activities, vibrations and accident
work hazards. But lately, there are other hazards being
2. High level of stress (associated
reported such as noise which cause their lack of sleep,
with poor sleep quality, noise 3.29 Agree 1
and workload) coming from a cold place to a very hot one, exposure to
3. Difficulty in adjustment from artificial lights, chemicals, radiation and asbestos that is
2.92 Agree 2 considered as hazards. Other health hazards are the
onboard to shore based life
4. Mental strain of accomplishing hearing loss, balance due to swaying of ship, and sight
the set-task and tendency to take 2.88 Agree 3 problems. There are also cases that caused the accidents
short cuts to finish work such as fire, slipped, and falls that could lead to
5. Lack of self-confidence and resignation or disabilities [17].
self-motivation to work and 2.75 Agree 5 While “prevalence of low pay that could lead to
perform their duties dissatisfaction to work and frequent absent from work”
Composite Mean 2.93 Agree with 2.83 and the least is “lack of self-confidence and
Legend: 3.50 – 4.00 = Strongly Agree; 2.50 – 3.49 = Agree; 1.50 –
2.49 = Disagree; 1.00 – 1.49 = Strongly Disagree self-motivation to work and perform their duties” with
lowest mean of 2.75 and verbally interpreted as agree.
Table 4 presents the factors that caused distress as to The respondents agreed that there are times that they
psychological which obtained the composite mean of feel lack of confidence and motivation to work which
2.93 and verbally interpreted as agree. could be because of the anxiety they feel due to the nature
The respondents experienced psychological distress due of their work and the status they have being away from
to the work environment and the nature of their work their comfort zone can lead to feeling of fear and
which is different compared to working onshore. There discomfort. They feel alienated with the environment,
is a big difference when a person is on-board because no the kind of work they need to perform and being with
social network is available and even social media is people who belong to different culture.
limited when there are low or no signal at all. Further, Motivations in work is a very sensitive issue in an
even during off, the seafarers are still within their organization, thus, it is still essential in the management
working environment which may affect their of employees. Both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation is
psychological aspect because of feeling of burnout and the basic factors in Motivation theory. It could be the
stress. range of behaviour, values and incentives within or
Other factors such as job demands, management internally. And the extrinsic which is outside the human
control of the seafarers work and duties, the support psychological needs. All people must be motivated so
system they received from their co-workers and that each duties and job will be done. Good job is also
management, interrelationship, their role, the changes fulfilled by the employees can be source of their
that occur and how it is implemented are six areas of incentives. Desire for helping others, society and
concerns that may lead to distress among them. When community can also instil the morals and incentives to
they are under distress, the seafarers became incompetent reach their goal of helping others to make the world a
in making decisions making and become distracted [16]. better place. This kind of incentives is identified by
It shows that the item “high level of stress (associated Abraham Maslow, an organizational behaviour theorist
with poor sleep quality, noise and workload” got the who constitutes that there are several levels of incentives
highest weighted mean of 3.29 followed by “difficulty in depending on the case in an organization [18].
adjustment from on-board to shore based life” with 2.92 Table 5 presents the factors that caused distress as to
and “mental strain of accomplishing the set-task and Social which obtained the composite mean of 2.88 and
tendency to take short cuts to finish work” with 2.88. verbally interpreted as agree.
The result means that the respondents are This means that social aspect can cause distress
encountering high level of stress in relevance to their among seafarers because of being away from their social
poor sleep, noise and workload because of their network like friends and families. They need to be with
environment during work and even while resting. Being people with different culture and races that sometimes-
a seafarer would lead to this kind of stress because they
81
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
caused conflicts at work. However, they are doing this to limited manpower available on-board. This can be source
provide support to their families. of their distress since they experience too tiring
workload.
Table 5. Factors that Caused Distress as to Social Main and Chambers [19] argued that cruise line
Indicators WM VI Rank industry is associated with work long shifts which are
1. Long and unsociable working often a very difficult condition. Typically, they need to
hours that requires most 3.33 Agree 1 work overtime due to shortage of personnel compared to
physical efforts the work that is needed to finish, at times work alone and
2. Insufficient benefits and isolated from other personnel. They should ensure that
rewards for accomplishment 2.67 Agree 5
the overall operation of seafaring is continuous to
and low interest at work
3. No social relations and provide services to their passengers.
unfriendly co-workers that lead While “arguments and fight with colleagues and
2.79 Agree 2.5 unfriendly working environment” with weighted mean of
to differences of opinions and
conflicts with colleagues 2.78 and the least is “insufficient benefits and rewards
4. Insufficient support from the for accomplishment and low interest at work” with
organization, co-workers and 2.79 Agree 2.5 lowest mean of 2.67 and verbal interpretation of agree.
family The least distress they experience is insufficient
5. Arguments and fight with benefits and rewards because seafarers are compensated
colleagues and unfriendly 2.78 Agree 4 beyond the minimum wage as a means of motivation to
working environment
enter such industry. The environment of seafaring is far
Composite Mean 2.88 Agree
Legend: 3.50 – 4.00 = Strongly Agree; 2.50 – 3.49 = Agree; 1.50 –
different from the normal work environment on shore
2.49 = Disagree; 1.00 – 1.49 = Strongly Disagree due to travel and transport activities it needs to do.
Being recompense is a need for employees and is
The seafarers who are supporting their families are essential to do their job at all cost. Rewards for good job
being affected by homesickness, presence of other and job are being compensated through cash or monetary
people and races, and even the physiological needs payments. This is a good incentive because of
available in the ship. When they are under distress, their physiological needs of every individual. Through good
decision making is affected, given that they realign their compensation and benefits provided by their company,
priorities as well as their lifestyle that lead to the employees will perform well in the business.
unproductive activities and distractions. There are Receiving good amount will boost their morals and
additional factors that affect the psychological and encourage them to do good, provide good service and
mental wellness of seafarers such as being alone, adjust to the customers’ satisfaction because they would
turnaround, limited leave, and separation anxiety attacks not want to allow the business to go down so that they
from families and relatives, retention of work and long will still have their job and the business will still pay
working hours that is considered by many studies that them for their job.
could affect the overall wellness of seafarers. Cross All people must be motivated so that each duties and
culture has less impact on the social aspect of the job will be done. Incentives can be identified through
seafarers being different with culture and practices from monetary such as bonuses, high pay and compensation
co-workers. Further, their being away from their own benefits. Other kinds of incentives can be given through
culture can also affect their social wellness [7]. fame and glory, recognition, acknowledgement and
It shows that the item “long and unsociable working rewards. A good job remark is also fulfilled by the
hours that requires most physical efforts” with highest employees and can be source of their incentives. Desire
weighted mean of 3.33 followed by “no social relations for helping others, society and community can also instil
and unfriendly co-workers that lead to differences of the morals and incentives to reach their goal of helping
opinions and conflicts with colleagues” and “insufficient others to make the world a better place. This kind of
support from the organization, co-workers and family” incentives are identified by Abraham Maslow, an
with 2.79. organizational behaviour theorist who constitutes that
The respondents are experiencing a long and there are several levels of incentives depending on the
unsociable working hour due to overtime since there are case in an organization [20].
tasks needed to be done to maintain the service quality as
well as the safety and security in seafaring. They need to
perform duties that is beyond their roles because of
82
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Table 6. Summary Table on the Factors that Caused to the movement of the ship and the natural occurrences
Distress such as rain and typhoon [22].
Indicators WM VI Rank
1. Physical 3.12 Agree 1 Table 7. Coping Mechanism as to Personality Traits
2. Emotional 3.00 Agree 2 Indicators WM VI Rank
3. Psychological 2.93 Agree 3 1. I am flexible and adaptable to
4. Social 2.88 Agree 4 3.58 Always 9
any situation
Composite Mean 2.98 Agree 2. I am dedicated and committed
Legend: 3.50 – 4.00 = Strongly Agree; 2.50 – 3.49 = Agree; 1.50 – to the objectives and goals of 3.92 Always 1
2.49 = Disagree; 1.00 – 1.49 = Strongly Disagree my profession as seafarer
3. I am determined to be the best
Table 6 presents the factors that caused distress which 3.58 Always 9
seafarer
obtained the composite mean of 2.98 and verbal 4. I am disciplined and obedient
interpreted as agree. Physical factor got the weighted to follow the procedures and 3.88 Always 2
mean of 3.12 followed by emotional with 3.00 and standards in seafaring
psychological with 2.93 while the least is social with 2.88 5. I am a hardworking person as
3.87 Always 3
and verbally interpreted as agree. a seafarer
6. I am independent in doing my
The respondents agreed that there are factors that 3.58 Always 9
job
caused distress to them as they pursue their profession in 7. I am intelligent enough to
seafaring because of the unique kind of environment and assess my environment and
services they provide while travelling through sea. 3.63 Always 6.5
cope with the demand of my
Seafarers who are part of the shipboard and marine work
industry are facing different challenges when it comes to 8. I am patiently doing my work
3.79 Always 4
controlling crisis due to the operation of vessels and even under pressure
cruise ship. They need information and abilities to 9. I am responsible and
function at a high level since there are always existing accountable for my decision 3.67 Always 5
dangers when they are onboard which differs on the and actions
10. I am a very jolly person and
problems of people at shore. To cope with this demand,
can socialize with my 3.63 Always 6.5
the seafarers and marine employee must undergo colleagues and co-seafarers.
trainings that is congruent to the needed skills as Composite Mean 3.58 Always
seafarers. Trainings are essential for the cadets and Legend: 3.50 – 4.00 = Always; 2.50 – 3.49 = Often; 1.50 – 2.49 =
offices in relation to the information on specialized and Sometimes; 1.00 – 1.49 = Never
systematically education which include shipboard
training or their exposure to the real ground of maritime Table 7 presents the coping mechanism as to
professionals. Confidence and strong will is also an personality traits which obtained the composite mean of
advantage in this industry, along with physical strength 3.58 and verbally interpreted as always. The respondents
in the strict compliance to training procedures. In order always cope with their distress by having positive
to do so, a life at sea during shipboard training is an personality traits that help them overcome the
important process and mandated by the maritime environment of seafaring.
education [21]. Personality traits of the seafarer are very important
Among the items, the respondents agreed that factor to survive the life at sea. This is how they can cope
physical factors are the distress that is most experienced through their natural traits and behaviour to be able to
in seafaring because of the presence of different stressors live at sea [1].
such as work environment by being at sea for a long time The respondents perceived that “I am dedicated and
and the risk of accidents. In addition to this, being part of committed to the objectives and goals of my profession
seafaring environment can affect the sleep and rest as seafarer” which got the highest weighted mean of 3.92
because of the noise of the cruise ship and water followed by “I am disciplined and obedient to follow the
especially when there are heavy rain and storm. procedures and standards in seafaring” with weighted
The life of seafarers at sea is a very draining situation mean of 3.88, and “I am a hardworking person as a
to them. They need to be physically fit to cope with such seafarer” with 3.87.
environment and can deal with the stress it brings to them They are dedicated to their work and are inspired to
and their bodies. They are unable to take enough rest due function well while working on-board. When they feel
this commitment, they tend to work hard and forget the
83
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
distress they encounter by striving what is best for the Table 8. Coping Mechanism as to Physical Factors
seafaring profession. This is an internal motivation so Indicators WM VI Rank
that they will forget homesickness and their family as 1. I always wear personal
3.79 Always 3
well as being in a different environment. protective equipment’s (PPE)
The goal of the seafaring can help a person to become 2. I ensure that the workplace and
inspired and find something to strive for as they provide living accommodation is kept
clean and tidy and free from
customer service and attain satisfaction from them. This
slip, trip, fall hazards and from 3.83 Always 2
also strive for what is right and wrong and can be the the inappropriate storage of
value motivator for the employees to know if they are in harmful substances and fire
the right path of their service as well as performance [23]. sources
While “I am flexible and adaptable to any situation”, 3. I maintain physical activities
3.33 Always 8
“I am determined to be the best seafarer”, and “I am such as exercise and sports.
independent in doing my job” with mean of 3.58 and 4. I am watching televisions,
verbal interpretation of always. movies and DVDs, listening to 3.42 Often 7
The respondents are flexible and adaptable as well as radios, and reading books
independent in doing their job as their coping mechanism 5. I eat nutritional foods such as 3.67 Always 5.5
fruits and vegetables
to the distress present in their work environment. This is
6. I maintain adequate rest and
the least coping mechanism they have because it is hard 3.25 Often 9
sleep and use my day off
for them to immediately adapt to the seafaring 7. I limit my vices such as
environment. Though, they are oriented before they were 3.22 Often 10
drinking alcohol and smoking
deployed, there is high difference between knowing the 8. I usually clean my place, post
3.92 Always 1
environment and experiencing the actual life of seafarers. and room
Personal characteristics are always affected by the goal 9. I always maintain security 3.71 Always 4
of the organization because it can influence the awareness about my job
personalities and behaviours of its employees. 10. I drink a lot of water 3.67 Always 5.5
The seafarers’ skills are important in the seafaring Composite Mean 3.65 Always
Legend: 3.50 – 4.00 = Always; 2.50 – 3.49 = Often; 1.50 – 2.49 = Sometimes;
activities including their abilities to adapt the 1.00 – 1.49 = Never
environment. They should be flexible to do the same task
in a different place and deal with different culture so that This means that the most coping activities the
they could still be independent and become the best of respondents do is cleaning their room to maintain it and
what they could be [24]. assure that everything they need is in order. It is very
Table 8 presents the coping mechanism as to physical important that when a person is away from home, they
factors which obtained the composite mean of 3.65 and maintain the cleanliness of their place because it reflects
verbally interpreted as always. their personality.
It implies that the respondents are coping with distress Tolentino and Quiden [7] stated that the seafarers are
using their physical factors such as by maintaining their trained before they are deployed and emphasize to them
work area and changing their environment to allow them the importance of cleanliness to reduce the health risk
to adapt to the work environment of seafaring. Further, among them. Since they will be on-board and at the sea
they use it to make themselves forget of their situation of for certain period, it is important that they take care of
being away from shore and their family. themselves and their needs.
Physical factors are very important in surviving the While “I maintain adequate rest and sleep and use my
life at sea among seafarers because it can help them feel day off” with 3.25 and the least is “I limit my vices such
at home and help them to adapt to the changing as drinking alcohol and smoking” with mean of 3.22 and
environment of seafaring [1]. verbal interpreted as often.
The item “I usually clean my place, post and room” The least coping strategies is to limit their vices like
got the highest weighted mean of 3.92 followed by “I drinking and smoking because they think that vices have
ensure that the workplace and living accommodation is detrimental effect that they feel they are relaxed while
kept clean and tidy and free from slip, trip, fall hazards resting. But this is not true because drinking and smoking
and from the inappropriate storage of harmful substances can make them more depressed and anxiety attacks
and fire sources” with 3.83 and “I always wear personal increases.
protective equipment’s (PPE)” with 3.79. Lewis [25] posited that the seafarers are encouraged
to practice healthy lifestyle so that they will stay well and
84
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
healthy all throughout the journey. Further it is part of Personal reason depicts the inspiration of the
the cabin crew that must always be safe and required to seafarers while they are on-board. They use it as source
have medical assessment before they are deployed to of their strength to go on with their life and be functional
seafaring. while on-board [1].
The seafarers posited that there are ways to increase The response “I am initiative enough to do my own
the healthy lifestyle, however, there are instances that part in making myself and co-workers safe” got the
they are prone to unhealthy lifestyle due to coping of highest weighted mean of 3.87, followed by “I ensure
stress experience in the ship. It includes alcohols, good occupational health and safety procedures”, “I
smoking, exercise, diet, routine, boredom and isolation. work and live decently” and “I should maintain high self-
There are times that it can lead to physical deficit such as esteem” with 3.83.
overweight and obesity. Overweight and obesity is The respondents are doing their part to make their
related to the respiratory system risk factors. Though not environment very safe to reduce the risk for accidents
all have health deficit in the system, the obesity and risk and future problem. Making themselves safe as well as
for high weight may include the breathing shortness and their co-worker will make them aware of the hazards
wheezing. It is also a risk factor to the sleeping condition present in the work environment of seafaring. They even
of a person such as apnea where he can be disrupted wear PPE and encourage others to be safe so that no
during sleep due to breathing and worst asthma. It is accidents will occur that could lead to future problem.
suggested that most children who always eat fast foods They have the sense of leadership and adapt the
will heighten the risk for health illness relative to environment through good communication as the key
respiration such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and survival techniques. They can communicate with co-
congested nose [24] employees since Filipinos are known to be good
communicator and conversationalists. Addition to this,
Table 9. Coping Mechanism as to Personal Reason leadership is demonstrated through good communication
Indicators WM VI Rank skills and is another valued trait in a seafarer. Regardless
1. I always have positive view to the rank, a seafarer will be placed in situations where he
3.70 Always 6.5
instil a sense of fulfilment must lead and solve problems. Knowing how to solve
2. I always believe to have a problems (and not problem-blame or problem-avoid),
sense of leadership and adapt plus the ability to thrive under pressure, make one a
3.75 Always 5
the environment through good
valued seafarer [4].
communication
3. I ensure good occupational While “I am not a bad-tempered person” with
health and safety procedures
3.83 Always 3 weighted mean of 3.41 and the least is “I am emotionally
4. I know I should maintain my attached to myself and co-workers” with 3.12 and verbal
3.70 Always 6.5 interpreted as often.
physical strength/ stamina
5. I work and live decently 3.83 Always 3 Lastly, the respondents are attached to their co-
6. I cope with the stress brought workers and to themselves as the least coping mechanism
3.45 Often 8
by the environment because they need to be able to think clearly if they
7. I am not a bad-tempered demonstrate confidence and independency.
3.41 Often 9
person The mental and mind setting of humans is very
8. I am emotionally attached to
3.12 Often 10 complicated and multifaceted which indicates how
myself and co-workers
9. I should maintain high self difficult to understand behaviour. Because behaviour
3.83 Always 3 sometimes deals with external factors and adapt to that
esteem
10. I am initiative enough to do my current situation. Every day, as people faced different
own part in making myself and 3.87 Always 1 person and deals with different behaviour, their
co-workers safe. psychological, emotional and psychosocial abilities
Composite Mean 3.71 Always changes based on the outside stimulus. Psychology
Legend: 3.50 – 4.00 = Always; 2.50 – 3.49 = Often; 1.50 – 2.49 = assesses the personality factors and the emotional
Sometimes; 1.00 – 1.49 = Never stimulus which make the behaviour of a person too
complex to understand. Theories have its own accord to
Table 9 presents the coping mechanics as to physical make each facet of personality and personhood is
factors which obtained the composite mean of 3.71 and addressed. The seafarer’s personality is affected by the
verbally interpreted as always. nature of their work for being in the same routine and
place could affect the way of thinking of the seafarers.
85
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Their behaviour changes as they tried to adapt the found out that staff has higher assessment on the
changes of environment every time they go aboard [17]. psychological factors compared to the other group.
Table 10. Difference of Responses on Factors that Table 12. Difference of Responses on Factors that
Caused Distress as to Physical When Grouped Caused Distress as to Psychological When Grouped
According to Profile According to Profile
F- p- F- p-
Profile Variables Interpretation Profile Variables Interpretation
value value value value
Civil Status 0.925 0.365 Not Significant Civil Status 1.922 0.068 Not Significant
Position 1.578 0.226 Not Significant Position 3.804 0.026 Significant
Length of Years Length of Years On-
1.447 0.258 Not Significant 0.671 0.522 Not Significant
On-board board
Income 2.364 0.102 Not Significant Income 3.069 0.051 Not Significant
Legend: Significant at p-value < 0.05 Legend: Significant at p-value < 0.05
As seen from the result, all computed p-values were
all greater than 0.05alpha level, thus the researchers fail The position has difference on the response of
to reject the null hypothesis of no significant differences psychological distress due to the level of duties and job
on the factors that causes distress as to physical when description that the respondents need to perform while
grouped according to profile. This means that there were onboard. Staff has higher psychological distress because
no significant differences observed and implies that the they are the one who have direct contact with different
responses are the same across each profile. customers with different level of satisfaction and needs.
The respondents have the same physical distress People tend to be affected psychologically depending
experienced when seafaring because of the work on the extent of their duties and responsibilities. When
environment that has the same impact to them. the employee is set to be in the position where they have
direct contact with the customers, there are more source
Table 11. Difference of Responses on Factors that of stress that is present in the work environment [22].
Caused Distress as to Emotional When Grouped
According to Profile Table 13. Difference of Responses on Factors that
F- p- Caused Distress as to Social When Grouped
Profile Variables Interpretation
value value According to Profile
Civil Status 0.816 0.423 Not Significant F- p-
Profile Variables Interpretation
Position 3.077 0.051 Not Significant value value
Length of Years On- Civil Status 2.072 0.050 Not Significant
1.377 0.274 Not Significant
board Position 1.802 0.179 Not Significant
Income 2.726 0.071 Not Significant Length of Years Not Significant
1.991 0.161
Legend: Significant at p-value < 0.05 On-board
Income 2.203 0.119 Not Significant
Based from the table, all computed p-values were all Legend: Significant at p-value < 0.05
greater than 0.05alpha level, thus the researchers fail to
reject the null hypothesis of no significant differences on It can be gleaned from Table 13 that all computed p-
the factors that causes distress as to emotional when values were all greater than 0.05 alpha level, thus the
grouped according to profile. This means that there were researchers fail to reject the null hypothesis of no
no significant differences observed and implies that the significant differences on the factors that causes distress
responses are the same across each profile. as to social when grouped according to profile. This
The responses of the respondents do not differ in means that there was no significant difference observed
assessment of emotional distress because they all face the and implies that the responses are the same across each
same situation which is far from their comfort zone and profile.
families. No difference is found on the social distress among
As shown from the result of Table 12, there was a seafarers because they have the same social environment
significant difference observed on position since the and the impact will be the same. They stayed on-board
obtained p-value of 0.026 was less than 0.05 alpha level. for certain period and will be encountering the same
This means a significant difference observed and it was group of people while on-board.
86
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Table 14. Proposed Plan of Action to Enhance the provide insights about the physical facilities and
Coping Mechanism Among Seafarers amenities to provide safety precautions and lower the
Key Result Area Strategies
Outcome
distress, they feel towards the cruise ship environment.
Objectives Activities Before deployment, the cruise ship management may
Personality provide examination for the seafarer to assess the extent
Traits of their coping mechanism towards the stress that they
To enhance the Work The seafarer is will encounter. There should be a rigid orientation on the
abilities of Environment flexible and
life at sea. The plan of action may be used to enhance the
seafarers to Orientation adaptable to their
become flexible Seminar environment coping mechanism among seafarers. And for the future
and adaptable the while onboard study was recommended using the other factors that
could lead to associated with distress and coping mechanism of the
being independent seafarers.
and best seafarer
REFERENCES
Physical Factors [1] Bautista, J., Curchea, V., Del Mundo J., Macatangay, J.,
To allow the Health Education The seafarers are and Pagcaliwagan, J. (2015). Survival Characteristics as
seafarers to have doing their best Perceived by the Experienced Seafarers. Undergraduate
adequate sleep Healthy Lifestyle to have adequate Thesis. Lyceum of the Philippines University
and rest during Practices sleep and rest [2] ICSW (2011) Guidelines for mental care onboard
rest day and limit Seminar The practice merchant ships. International Committee on Seafarers’
their vices to healthy lifestyle Welfare, Seafarers Health Information Programme. 12 p.
maintain healthy Online address: www.seafarershealth.org. Email:
lifestyle icsw@icsw.org.uk
[3] Mejia, R. L. (2017). Industry Partner Perspective on
Personal Reason Cruiseline Management Trainees: Basis for Improved
To lessen the Emotional The seafarers are Internship Program. Asia Pacific Journal of Education,
emotional Quotient not emotional Arts and Sciences 4(1) 53-64
attachment of the Assessment of attached to their [4] Anacta, K. (2011). Factors Affecting the Career
seafarers their co- the Seafarers co-workers and Development of Seafarers. Master Thesis. Asian Institute
workers became of Maritime Studies-Graduate School, Pasay City,
Emotional independent in Philippines.
Quotient doing their task [5] Calderon, I. and Gonzales, P. (2017). Thesis Writing.
Seminar while onboard National Bookstore Publication. Manila Philippines
[6] Macatangay, J., Andal, N., Pangpang, N., Suayan, K.,
CONCLUSIONS Pana, R., and De Leon, J. (2014). Effectiveness of Basic
Majority of the respondents belong to age bracket of Safety Training Among Cruise Line Students. Asia
18-35 years old, single male, working as staff for 1-3 Pacific Journal of Multidisciplinary Research. 2(3) pp.
years and earning 40,001-60,000 pesos. The respondents 161-169
[7] Tolentino, H. and Quiden, C. (2015). Shipboard Training
agreed that factor such as physical oppressiveness, long Opportunities for Cadets through Shipboard Training
absence from work, high level of stress and long and Program of LIMA LPU-B Undergraduate Thesis.
unsociable working hours that caused distress when they Lyceum of the Philippines University
are on board. They always cope with distress in terms of [8] McAuliffe, N. (2015). Life After You Graduate: What are
personal reason, physical factors, and personality traits. the Best Options for You. The Intern Group. Retrieved
There is significant difference on factors that caused from https://www.irishtimes.com/
distress as to psychological when grouped according to [9] Erlano, E., Ancajas, E., Atip, Z., Bayer, D., and
position. The researchers proposed an action plan to Rodriguez, J. (2017). Filipino Seafarers Perception on
enhance the coping mechanism among seafarers. Safety and Security of Passenger Vessels in Batangas
City Port. Undergraduate Thesis. Lyceum of the
Philippines University.
RECOMMENDATIONS [10] Dacuray, M., De La Rosa, R., De Chavez, J., Dolor, P.,
It is recommended that the management of cruise ship Guevarra, L., Caiga, B., and Mandigma, L. (2015).
may conduct trainings for staff and crew members about Maritime Students’ Satisfaction on the Services of One
the safety hazards and implementation of safety Training Center in the Philippines. International Journal
procedures in the cruise ship. There may be suggestion of Management Services. 4(8) pp. 243-353
box in the cruise ship where the staff and crew may
87
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com
Asia Pacific Journal of Education, Arts and Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 1, January 2019
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
[11] Rengamani, J. (2012). A Study on the Factors Influencing [25] Lewis, P. (2015). Training Effectiveness in Maritime
the Seafarer’s Stress. AMET International Journal of Transport. Buskerud and Vestfold University College.
Management. 1(2) 44-55 Retrieved from https://brage.bibsys.no/
[12] Naval, P., Oliveros, M., Ynieto, R. (2013). Perception of
Third Year CITHM Students about Safety and Security
Practices on Board the Ship. Undergraduate Thesis.
Lyceum of the Philippines University. Retrieved from
https://prezi.com/40beckyn1v6j/copy-of-perception-of-
3rd-year-cithm-students-about-safety-and-security-
practices-on-board-the-ship/
[13] Barranta, C.M. (2012) Attitude of the Filipino Seafarers
Towards their Working Environment in Relation to their
Emotional Intelligence and Personality Traits. Retrieved
from https://bit.ly/2JEJrGH
[14] Mission, Jenlin, Jayme, Timothy, Miraflor, Allin.,
Capaque, Iltyd., and Sanchez, Mark Joven (2013).
Coping Mechanisms of Selected Filipino Seafarers on
Board. John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University,
Iloilo City Philippines
[15] Mckay, S. and Wright, T. (2007) Seafarers in a Global
World: The Changing needs of Seafarers for Advice,
Support and Representation. Retrieved from
https://bit.ly/30tCbnP
[16] Gregorio, E. (2012). The Filipino Seafarers’ Lived
Experiences Aboard International Shipping Vessels: A
Basis for Health Promotion Intervention
http://www.researchgate.net/
[17] ILO (2014). Accident Prevention on Board Ship at Sea
and In Port. International Labour Office Geneva.
Retrieved from http://www.ifsma.org/
[18] Meketon, R. (2017). The Impact of Labor Standards on
Restaurant Business Practices in Boston, MA. Master’s
in city planning. MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF
TECHNOLOGY. Amherst College
[19] Main, L., and Chambers, T. (2015). Factors Affecting
Maritime Pilot’s Health and Well-being: A Systematic
Review. International Maritime Health, 66(4), 220-232
[20] Graveson, A. (2016). Safety of Large Passenger Vessels.
Senior National Secretary, Nautilus, UK. Retrieved from
http://www.ifsma.org/
[21] Nikitakos, N., and Sirris, I. (2011). Learning with 3D
games. A framework for design and develops educational
games in Maritime Education and Training. The Digital
Ship Magazine Retrieved from http://iamu-edu.org
[22] McFadden, A. (2015). The Impact of Co-Workers on
Safety Outcomes: Comparing Models of Mediation,
Modernation, and Incremental Effects. All Dissertations.
[23] Sussex, T. (2015). How to Create a Personal Mission and
Vision Statement for Your Career. Liquid Planner Blog.
Retrieved from https://www.liquidplanner.com/
[24] IMO, (2016). Introduction to IMO.IMO – the
International Maritime Organization – is the United
Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the
safety and security of shipping and the prevention of
marine pollution by ships. Retrieved from
http://www.imo.org/
88
P-ISSN 2362-8022 | E-ISSN 2362-8030 | www.apjeas.apjmr.com