Barkadahan: A study of peer group norms and values among Filipino adolescents

• Main Authors: Lajom, Jennifer Ann L., Canoy, Nico, Amarnani, Rajiv K., Parcon, Apryl Mae, Valera, Paula Melizza
• Format: text
• Published: Animo Repository 2009
• Subjects: Teenagers—Philippines; Teenagers—Philippines—Conduct of life; Values; Psychology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/faculty_research/7802
• Institution: De La Salle University

Peer groups are among the most influential aspects of adolescent development. The present study is a qualitative investigation of the behaviors, norms, values, and dynamics in general of the adolescent peer group in the Filipino setting-the barkada. Four focus group discussions composed of adolescent peer group are held. two in the urban setting and two in the rural setting. Findings through thematic content analysis show that adolescents in the barkada show the following norms: revelation of true self to peers. consistency of behavior help and protection among the peer group, and pakikisama (or smooth interpersonal relations). The values found include valuing oneself, valuing others. a sense of resolve, and trust directed both to the other and to the self implications in terms of adolescent identity development. personal and relational self-concept, and dynamics within the barkada are discussed.