A narrative exploration of romantic experiences and ideal relationship standards among Filipino Gen Z

Exequiel Josh Manalili & Marie Chiela Malcampo

Volume 5 Issue 2, June 2025

Abstract

Romantic love is hard to define, as it varies greatly due to factors like sex at birth, past experiences, and cultural background. These differences shape personal standards for an ideal partner, further influenced by generational shifts that impact how each generation views romance. This study addresses notable research gaps, including the limited exploration of romantic love in general and the lack of focus on Generation Z’s unique experiences in forming romantic ideals. It also examines the tendency to focus mainly on social media and online dating, often overlooking other factors that influence Generation Z's views on love. The study gathered data from nine Filipino participants who belong to Generation Z and have experienced romantic relationships. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. It was found that Filipino Generation Z’s romantic ideals are shaped by diverse influences, including media portrayals, cultural norms, and personal experiences. While personal growth and shared values are significant, the key discovery is that individual introspection and self-reflection play a central role in shaping romantic standards. This study suggests that counseling practices can be enhanced by integrating Adler’s theory of subjective interpretation and Glasser’s choice theory. Both frameworks emphasize the role of self-awareness and personal agency in decision-making, aligning with Generation Z’s introspective approach to love. By understanding that Generation Z’s romantic standards are not solely shaped by societal norms but by conscious self-reflection, counselors can better support clients in making relationship choices rooted in authenticity and personal values. This approach supports healthier relationship dynamics by fostering self-awareness and autonomy of Generation Z individuals wanting to pursue romantic relationships.

Keywords

Author information & Contribution

Exequiel Josh Manalili. Corresponding author. Bachelor of Science–Master of Arts in Psychology and Counseling, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Philippine Normal University-Manila, Philippines. Email: manalili.ejm@stud.pnu.edu.ph

Marie Chiela Malcampo. MAEd Guidance and Counseling, Associate Professor, Philippine Normal University-Manila, Philippines. Email: malcampo.mcc@pnu.edu.ph

"All authors equally contributed to the conception, design, preparation, data gathering and analysis, and writing of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript."

Disclosure statement

Funding

Institutional Review Board Statement

AI Declaration

Notes

Acknowledgement

The author extends sincere gratitude to Dr. Darwin Rungduin, professor in Research in Psychology 1 and 2, for teaching the fundamental knowledge of research and thesis writing. His guidance has been instrumental in shaping the author's understanding of the research process, and his encouragement has inspired the integration of learned concepts into the development of this paper. Appreciation is also extended to the guidance counselors of the Student Affairs and Services Office at Philippine Normal University – Manila for their valuable feedback and insightful comments on the interview questions. Their expertise has significantly contributed to the refinement of this study.

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Cite this article:

Manalili, E.J. & Malcampo, M.C. (2025). A narrative exploration of romantic experiences and ideal relationship standards among Filipino Gen Z. International Review of Social Sciences Research, 5(2), 126-155. https://doi.org/10.53378/irssr.353199