TATAY, SANA KASAMA KITA: LIVED EXPERIENCES OF FATHERLESS MALE STUDENTS

Cynthia Grace  T. Valdez,

TATAY, SANA KASAMA KITA: LIVED EXPERIENCES OF FATHERLESS MALE STUDENTS

Abstract:

This study explored the experiences of and challenges faced by male students who lack a father figure while growing up. Qualitative phenomenological design was used and the research ethical standard was strictly followed in data gathering. Purposeful sampling technique was used in selecting the research participants. Based on the stories of the informants, the phenomenon of absent fathers led to the deep craving of these youth for the presence, emotional support, financial support, and role model image from their fathers. The perceived needs that were unmet due to an absent father affected the participants emotionally. The results of the study had three implications: the impact of fathers on the youths lives needs to be firmly grounded in information gained from the youth themselves; the need for the institution's guidance department to identify role models among the Guidance Team members and the school faculty who could act as alternate father figures to students who are fatherless; and the expectations expressed by these youth that their fathers should be good providers shows clearly that the quality of the father-child relationship could be enhanced through improving the father's economic position.