Articles

Lived Experiences of Adolescent Mothers in their Transition to Motherhood in a Rural Barangay

This descriptive phenomenological type of study employed Giorgi’s Phenomenology with transcribed semi-structured face-to-face interviews to provide detailed examinations of personal lived experiences among the selected adolescent mothers in Barangay Rizal, Surigao City. Ten informants were selected using the criterion-based purposive sampling method specifying those who are mothers aged between 10 to 19 years old, have given birth to one live baby, are residents of Barangay Rizal, and are living with their parents who underwent struggles in transitioning to motherhood only. The emergent themes from the study revolved around three key aspects: physical problems, insufficient support, and mental and emotional distress. The journey into motherhood, while transformative for any woman, presents a unique set of challenges and complexities for adolescent mothers. Their experiences were vividly expressed in their narratives, showcasing a range of emotions including fear, uncertainty, and the simultaneous joy of motherhood. As they grapple with their new responsibilities, they also face the ongoing challenge of identity formation as adolescents. Throughout their journeys, there is a prevalent theme of profound personal development. This study serves as a very useful and trustworthy input for the creation and execution of specific programs and treatments that address specific challenges faced by adolescent mothers as they transition to motherhood.

Sociocultural Perspectives on Badjao Life Captured from the Lived Experiences of Badjao Teens in Surigao City: A Phenomenology

This Husserlian phenomenological study explored the sociocultural perspectives on Badjao life of teens in Surigao City. Employing Van Kaam’s phenomenology modified by Moustakas (1994), six key informants from the Badjao community (aged 15 to 19) in Canlanipa, Surigao City, were interviewed on their sociocultural experiences, yielding nine themes. Purposive sampling identified informants. Applying Van Kaam’s modified by Moustakas for data analysis revealed significant findings: Cultural Transition and Urban Challenges, Social Stereotypes and Bullying, Judgement and Discrimination, Language and Communication Challenges, Community and Social Exclusion, Government Support for Education and Community, Community Resilience and Support, Badjao Community Dynamics, and Traditional Cultural Practices. The Badjao community’s resilience relies on governmental support, education, and navigating cultural transitions. Facing discrimination and economic disparities, they strengthen social bonds, preserving cultural identity. Tradition meeting progress creates a harmonious future. The research amplifies Badjao teens’ voices, aids Surigao City leaders in understanding their needs, boosts community pride, contributes to cultural understanding, enriches academic knowledge, refines cultural theories, empowers individuals, informs policies, and strengthens community well-being.