Philippine E-Journals

Resiliency in Filipino Families

Caroline S. De Leon

Discipline: Family and Relationships

 

Abstract:

This study explored the phenomenon of resiliency through six families’ narratives of their experience in living through critical life events. Using a wellness perspective of human development, the study focused on the families’ capacity to cultivate strengths in the face of adversity.

The approach used was hermeneutic phenomenology to provide descriptions of the inner world of the families and to unveil the essence of their experience of rebounding from their crises. The phenomenological interview was the main technique of data gathering. A total of 18 family members participated in the tape-recorded interviews wherein they were asked to describe their experience of “rebounding” from adversity.

The essence of resiliency is revealed in two major core themes: 1) resiliency as process, and 2) family strengths. Subthemes of family strengths emerged from the stories. These were: 1) faith in God, 2) close family bonds and social support, 3) sense of service to others, and 4) self-reliance and family pride.

The findings from this inquiry point to significant implications for practitioners working with families. Filipino families can be empowered by being led to discover their inherent strengths and capabilities.