1

Life after Prison: Self-Esteem of Former Women Inmates

Undergraduate Thesis
Presented to the Faculty of the
Psychology Department of Xavier University
(Ateneo de Cagayan) Cagayan de Oro City

In Partial Fulfilment
of the Requirements for the Degree of
Bachelor of Science in Psychology

by

Abucay, Karen D.
Noynay, Lasseney P.
Opema, Julie Anne D.
Panal, Diana Via D.
Patica, Irish Jane B.
Sotto, Dannica Adeline F.

March 2019
 2

Abstract

Self-Esteem among former women inmates is rarely studied though very crucial since it

tackles the perception of women inmates. This study uses two theories: Social Identity theory

and Looking-glass theory. Looking-glass self-theory states that, the way a person views

themselves is reflective of what others think of them, suggesting the importance of social

environment for self-evaluation. While Social Identity theory, assumes that people strive to attain

a positive social identity in order to protect their self-esteem. These theories entail that looking at

the self-esteem of former women inmates, prison context such as their social relationships,

prison environment and prison experiences but be taken into consideration. By doing so, it can

determine whether the prison context influenced their self-esteem in a positive or negative way,

giving an idea of how these former women inmates reintegrate themselves back to their

community. The purpose of this study is to study the two components of self-esteem: prison self-

esteem and personal self-esteem of former women inmates and determine how the prison context

influenced their self-esteem. The results of the data gathered showed that prison self-esteem has

five major themes common among the former women inmates, namely: Prison Experiences,

Self-Blame, Treatment, Self-Awareness and Social Support, each with their respective

subthemes. The personal self-esteem has one major theme only: Positive Self-Esteem. This

posits that former women inmates shifted from a negative self-esteem to a positive self-esteem

after imprisonment.
 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER I Page

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study……………………………………………………. 5

Review of Related Literature……………………………………………….. 8

Theoretical Framework……………………………………………………… 14

Conceptual Framework……………………………………………………… 16

Statement of the Problem……………………………………………………. 17

Significance of the Study……………………………………….. ………….. 18

Definition of Terms…………………………………………………………. 19

Scope and Limitation……………………………………………………….. 19

CHAPTER II

METHODOLOGY

Research Design…………………………………………………………….. 21

Research Environment……………………………………………………… 21

Sample and Sampling Procedure……………………………………………. 21

Research Instrument………………………………………………………… 22

Validity and Reliability of Instrument……………………………………… 22

 4

Research Procedure…………………………………………………………. 22

Data Analysis……………………………………………………………….. 23

Ethical Consideration……………………………………………………….. 24

CHAPTER III

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Problem One of the Research………………………………………………….. 29

Problem Two of the Research………………………………………………….. 38

CHAPTER IV

Conclusion and Recommendation……………………………………………… 51

References

Appendices

Appendix

A Letter to the City Parole and Probation Administration

B Informed Consent

C In-depth Interview Guide Questions

D Proposed Calendar of Activities

E Researchers Qualifications

F Some pictures during the sessions

 5

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Over the years, it is a common knowledge that most of the inmates behind bars are male

individuals. Yet, the rate of women inmates is increasing as well. As of 2016, there were a total

of 142, 168 prison population in the Philippines and 12, 658 (8.9%) of them were women (World

Prison Studies.org).[1] This rapid increase of population in women inmates has been said to be

one of the outcomes of this current administration’s implementation on “War on Drugs.” Many

cases of these women inmates are subjected due to their affiliation or relationship to their

partners who were involved in drugs. With this reason, they are charged with cases leading them

to be imprisoned (Zarya, 2015).

Despite being released into the community, the battle of surviving among former women

inmates does not end inside the prison; it even gets more difficult when inmates are finally out of

the prison. Their identity as a former inmate continuously affects them not only emotionally and

psychologically, but it also affects their social and economic life particularly to job opportunities.

An extensive body of research has established that a conviction or time in prison makes

individuals significantly less employable. It is not simply that individuals who commit crimes are

less likely to work in the first place, but rather, the conviction or time in prison act independently

to lower the employment prospects of ex-offenders (Center for Economic and Policy Research).

Moreover, Superintendent Von Tesoro, the chief prison officer of the Davao Prison and

Penal Farm believes that imprisonment is not a responsive and effective penalty for female

offenders. After having years of experience in running prison facilities, he believes that a
 6

female’s absence in the Filipino home could only create havoc on the family and jeopardize the

future of the children (Tesoro, 2011). In addition, most of the inmates were mothers prior to

imprisonment and the sense of losing their role as a mother has been found out to have a

significant impact to women inmates resulting to identity confusion and lowered self-esteem.

Kamoyo (2018) also mentioned that being in prison will really have an impact to an

individual’s self-esteem and this will continue to have an impact on the current situation they are

in because imprisonment serves as a constant reminder to their perceived social status. Most of

the inmates would see themselves negatively because of the society’s labeling and stigma. These

perceptions that have been subjected to the inmates have made them think lowly of themselves

and carry this perception even after imprisonment.

This led the researchers to the questions: “What happens to the lives of former women

inmates after being released from the prison?”, “How are their self-esteem while inside the

prison and how are their self-esteem after they are released?”. Boduszek et. al (2016) defined

self-esteem as an evaluation of an individual to themselves to the extent of how they see their

self as capable and worthy. Abraham Maslow as well defined self-esteem as a need and an

individual’s own feelings of worthiness. Also, self-esteem is considered as a predictor for

behavioral and psychological outcomes of an inmate since self-esteem not only affects how one

sees their self, but to the extent of how they see and relate to others as well. In addition, self-

esteem is considered to be a resilience factor that is important as a psychological resource of

adaptation which is significant to the lives of former inmates who will adapt from imprisonment

to being released (Chui & Diehl, 2018).

Moreover, self-esteem is one of the most affected aspects in a life of a former inmate..

Most inmates, if not all, are deprived from their basic rights and have experienced unjust
 7

condition and treatment while inside the prison. It is a critical aspect that would deteriorate given

the unfair situation the former women inmates were going through, that in some cases would

badly affect one’s evaluation of self and the motivation to fulfil its fullest potential as an

individual. Experiencing all of these usually results to a diminished level of how they see and

evaluate themselves. On extreme cases, some inmates would just accept their situation and

would think that they deserve such degradation; this degraded sense of self will be adapted and

carried with them even upon release from the prison.

Thereby, the researchers took interest on self-esteem because it is a psychological

concept that is until now one of the most studied topics for researches, not only in the field of

Psychology but in other fields as well. The researchers specifically focused only on former

women inmates because gender is an important factor which influences growth and self-esteem

(Amuche & Mayange, 2013). Additionally, the researchers chose former women inmates rather

than men inmates because there are insights of a woman that are different from men given that

their experiences inside the prison are also varied.

Even though a lot of studies already had conclusions on gender stereotypes even on the

aspect of self-esteem, yet it is still hard to find studies that had specifically focused on former

women inmates’ self-esteem. Moreover, recent studies about the self-esteem of women inmates

are also limited since most researches are only intended for male inmates because their

population is larger than female inmates. Given this scarcity of information, this motivates the

researchers to explore and delve into the experiences of the former women inmates especially

coming from the local community and to contribute to the growing knowledge of psychology.

Furthermore, this study aims to understand and explore the perceived prison and personal

self-esteem of the former women inmates who have been released. Most importantly, studying
 8

self-esteem is continually being relevant until today because this affects the cognitive and

motivational aspects of an individual (Johnson, n.d). Understanding the context of this

psychological concept will not only help the researchers but also the community as well to

become more open and sensitive to the concerns of these former women inmates.

Review of Related Literature

The following section presents the related literature, readings, and related studies which

are relevant to the study. Topics are divided into Prisons, Former women inmates, and Self-

Esteem.

Prisons. Prisons are built to rehabilitate, correct, cure criminals of crime (Bruce, 2017)

and treat criminals to become useful citizens (Adu, 2007). However, prisons are uncomfortable

and is considered as a stressful environment (Bukstel & Kilman, 1980; DeRosia, 1998; Johnson

& Toch, 1982a; Kuipers, 1996; Liebling, 1999 as cited in Greve, W., & Enzmann, D., 2003). A

report given by Mika’il Deveaux on the trauma of imprisonment experiences, that is backed up

by research and reviewed by Harvard Civil Rights – Civil Liberties Law, states that prison

culture does more harm than good. Prison culture breeds violence, it includes harm on the

psychological well-being of inmates. Country’s prison where criminalities are expected to end

have become revolving doors that many of the residents and prisoners, returned time and again

(Adu, 2017).

An international treaty from UN named the Optional Protocol to the United Nations

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

(OPCAT) visited some prison facilities in the country and one of the overarching concerns they

have found is the extreme overcrowding. Prison facilities in Metro Manila and even in provincial
 9

jails have capacities that are limited to accommodate all of the inmates. This congestion of place

does not only breed inhumane treatment to inmates but as well affects their health while inside

the prison facility. Moreover, these overcrowded and underfunded prison facilities are not only a

burden to the inmates but to the prison managers as well which is becoming one of the

problematic concerns of a prison facility (Jones, 2014).

Former Women Inmates. It has been recognized how important women’s role are in

the society. Women play a substantial role in economic and national development in many

countries by performing their social and economic activities. They made great contributions as

mothers which is their domestic role in molding future generations (Ibrahim, et al., 2013).

Another study by Amanda (2008) stated that typically women serve as the primary care of their

children, and it is reported that at least one third of mothers are single parents before they were

imprisoned, which may disrupt the family unit. The sense of losing their role as a mother has

been found out to have a significant impact to women inmates resulting to loss of identity and

low level of self-esteem (Corston report as cited by Amanda, 2008). According to Bloom et al.,

(2003), that low self-esteem is frequently the outcome of abuse, mental illness, and other

different factors that are significant to female inmates.

Although women inmates only constitute a small percentage compared with the number

of men in prison. However, their numbers have dramatically risen over the last few decades

(Greene & Pranis, 2006; Jeffries, 2014; McIvor, 2010; Newbold, 2007 as cited by Jeffries &

Newbold, 2016). A report published in Philippine Daily Inquirer by Ramos (2017), mentioned

that because of the current war on drugs implemented by the President of the country, the

number of inmates are doubled. Around 67 percent of inmates are in custody due to drug related
 10

cases and 13 percent of that percentage comprises the number of women inmates which is

roughly 10, 291 inmates all over the nation.

Despite the overcrowding issue and the increasing number of population in the prison

facilities in the country, there is a women-friendly facility in Davao City named the Ray of Hope

Village and it offers bungalow type of shelters instead of prison cells. Adoracion Avisado, which

is a former judge and is now an executive director of Transformative Justice Institute, who is

involved in the implementation of the prison facility, exclaimed that women inmates cannot be

rehabilitated the same way the men inmates are treated because women have different needs

compare to them.

Another study by Barlow (2014), stated that men and women inmates are different when

it comes to their needs in prison. Women inmates are unlikely to receive any psychological

services and rehabilitation that are relevant to them because the population of male inmates are

larger than female inmates. Programs that try to integrate gender-specific needs are less funded

because the traditional gender-neutral model is more preferred. Voohris (2010) added that

without integrating gender-specific needs, women inmates tend to be over-classified and the

most significant risk considerations and needs that are appropriate to them are neglected.

Furthermore, inadequate information about women inmates has led to an absence of resources

for women inmates (Barlow, 2014).

Furthermore, women who enter and exit in criminal justice system are extremely

disempowered. Commonly, the profile of former women inmates is the one who is

disempowered, unfortunate in dysfunctional violent relationships and exploited by a society that

is incapable in supporting their needs. They inherently acquire lower status in society and

committing a crime ranks them far below the average woman (Barlow, 2014). Aside from being
 11

misunderstood by the society, women inmates lack self-confidence in facing the humiliation

upon returning to their communities (Wright et al. 2007). Moreover, Ormita & Perez (2012)

discovered that imprisonment has an effect to an inmate’s psychological state through their

multiple case study of six incarcerated women from Manila City Jail. Not only was that impact,

but their social relationship even to their family is affected as well; and most importantly, the

way they see their self was diminishingly low.

Yet, it is also worthy to note that there are still inmates who would see the prison

experience into the other side of the coin and that is to see things on the lighter and positive

perspective for there are inmates who would consider being imprisoned as transformational and

helpful to rehabilitate them. Rowe (2011) mentioned on her narrative study on the self and

identity of women inmates that there are some of them who see imprisonment as part of their

growth, freedom and even recovery.

Self-esteem. Self-esteem is commonly conceptualized as a component of the self-

concept. Generally, it signifies an individual’s whole positive evaluation of the self (As cited in

Cast & Burke, 2002) and is an individual’s personal emotional response towards themselves

(Heatherton and Wyland 2003). This is also a strong factor that affects personal development

which is something that the researchers would like to understand deeper for this will not only

affect the quality of the present situation of an individual, but will continuously alter one’s life if

not understood well.

Self-esteem is crucial and is a cornerstone of a positive attitude towards living. It is very

important because it affects how one thinks, acts, and even how a person relates to other people

(Bruce, 2017). Self-esteem, according to Nathaniel Brandon, is the “immune system of

consciousness.” He further elaborated, “Just as a healthy immune system does not guarantee that
 12

one will never become ill, but makes one less vulnerable to disease and better equipped to

overcome it, so a healthy self-esteem does not guarantee that one will never suffer anxiety or

depression in the face of life’s difficulties, but makes one less susceptible and better equipped to

cope, rebound and transcend (Ragan, 2017; Brandon, 1994, p. 18).”

In general, self-esteem is defined by how much individuals value themselves. It is a

subjective emotional response towards self (Heatherton & Wyland, 2003) and an evaluative

component of self-knowledge. Baumeister et al., (2003) states that self-esteem is a spectrum that

ranges to an accurate, justified definition of self or how much value individuals place on

themselves. Moreover, self-esteem is not just the outcome but indeed the cause of life’s major

successes and failures. The results of high self-esteem includes willingness to speak up in

groups, likability, and among others. While low self-esteem leads to difficulty speaking up,

externalize behavior, and delinquency. Also, this is supported by Cast and Burke (2002) wherein

positive effects to individuals as well as to society in general is related with high level of self-

esteem. An individual with enhanced self-esteem can effectively cope in stressful situations and

can maintain good health while psychological distress, depression, and antisocial behavior are

outcomes of low self-esteem (Battle 1990; Baumeister 1998; Tennen and Affleck 1993; Crocker,

Luhtanen, Blaine, and Broadnax 1994; Trzesniewski, Donnellan, and Moffitt 2006; as cited in

Boduszek, et,. al, 2016). It is widely known that the idea of fostering an individual’s self-esteem

will be helpful for both the society and the individual (Cast & Burke, 2002). In the Philippine

context, Filipinos are susceptible to the emotional necessities that leads asal or conduct. Amor

propio is a damdamin (emotional) norm which controls our sense of self-esteem (Ylagan, 2012).

Amor propio best translates as self-love. Furthermore, transgressions of self-esteem can

 13

contribute to hiya/shame to a woman. With them who violate the laws, this can be a contributing

factor of a low self-esteem.

According to La Vigne and Cowan (2005) as cited in Grommon et. al (2012); Cobbina

(2009) and; Grey et. al (2016) former women inmates are facing practical issues relating to

accommodation, employment, finances, family (social support), drug, and issues back in the

community. Research also suggests that self-esteem were largely linked to these issues.

Moreover, former women inmates desires to live “normal” life back in the community, however,

issues stated above and the stigma that they face are barriers in trying to achieve this (Gray et. al,

2016).

However, as stated by Haney (2002) on his study that had examined the unique

psychological changes of inmates from their prison experience, had said that imprisonment is

almost always difficult for the inmates especially in adjusting to their post-prison state and at

times, most of the inmates creates actions and thoughts that would be dysfunctional for them

when they are outside the prison center. However, he highlights that the experiences of being

imprisoned does not necessarily mean harm to everyone for the psychological effects of it varies

from an individual to another individual. This means that the personal and perceived self-esteem

of the former inmates could be very unique.

 14

Theoretical Framework

The objective of this research is to know and explore the prison specific and personal

self-esteem of former women inmates while they were inside the prison and as they were

released. Hence, the theory that the researchers will be using is the Social Identity Theory. Social

identity is the social category or social group where a person belongs with his or her knowledge

(Hogg & Abrams 1998; as cited in Burke & Stets, 2000). A particular social identity means

being part of a group, being like the other members of the group, and having the same

perspective with the group. This group is defined as a set of individuals who identify themselves

as members of a certain social category (Burke & Stets, 2000). Social Identity Theory by Tajfel

and Turner (1979), attempts to give explanation on an individual’s behavior and how they define

their identities with regard to their social groups and such identifications function in order to

protect and strengthen their self-esteem. In addition, it explains how an individual’s social group

relates to his or her self-esteem.

Social Identity Theory posits that a positive evaluation by an individual to his own group

is helpful in fulfilling one’s need for positive self-esteem (As cited in Boduszek, et,. al 2016).

The main principle of social identity theory is that individuals define their identities

accompanied by two dimensions; social and personal. In social, it is defined by the association in

different social groups. On the other hand, the personal are the particular attributes that make an

individual different from others. The social and personal dimensions are assumed to be at

opposite ends of a range, turning into more or less significant depending on the environment

(Howard, 2000). However, Deaux (1993) stated that there is an interaction between the two

dimensions, implying that these two are not simply separable.

 15

Social identities provide reputation that may or may not enhance self-esteem for the

reason that individuals are motivated in evaluating themselves positively and the groups where

they belong and separate themselves from a particular group that they identify as a threat to their

social identity (Howard, 2000). As reported by Simon and Hastedt (1999), aspects of the self that

are positive and more personally important tend to be the sources on which an individual puts

herself or himself with regards to collective categories, which then shows the relationship

between categorization and evaluation. This indicates that individuals in dominant groups are

likely to be more successful in attaining positive social identity. On the other hand, this is a

challenge for those individuals who belong to misunderstood, negatively appreciated groups,

who may try to make an effort to separate themselves, to evaluate the characteristics of their

group as less negative, to assess their group as more positive in other aspects, or to strive in

producing changes in the status of their group.

Similarly, according to Cooley’s (1998) Looking Glass Theory, that the way individuals

view themselves reflects on others’ perspective about them, which suggests that one’s social

environment is important for self-appraisals (As cited in Boduszek, et,. al, 2016). To Cooley, an

individual’s self-development occurs through the looking-glass self process which involves three

steps. First, the individual considers others on how he or she looks. Second, the person also

considers how other individuals evaluate him or her and lastly, the person may develop positive

or negative feeling regarding to others’ judgment (As cited in Kondrat & Teater, 2012). This

process depend on the ability of an individual to have an accurate interpretation to others’ view

of himself or herself and the esteem in which the person holds to the other (Franks & Gecas,

1992; as cited in Kondrat & Teater, 2012).

 16

In addition, according to Mead's (1934) symbolic interaction theory, it states that people

learn to respond to themselves in a way that others respond to them. An individual may express

positive self-appraisals when those evaluations take place within a social environment in which

they feel valued and accepted, and negative self appraisals in a more unfavorable environment

(As cited in Boduszek, et,. al, 2016).

Given these theoretical assumptions, it presumes that other individuals are also important

in one’s self-evaluation, thus, Boduszek, et,. al (2016) suggested that the self-esteem of prisoners

should be considered as a multi-dimensional concept indicating personal (context-free) and

prison (context specific) self-esteem.

Conceptual Framework

The illustration above shows the variables that are mainly involved in this study.
 17

Statement of the Problem

This study seeks to determine the perceived prison self-esteem and personal self-esteem

of the former women inmates. Specifically, this study will answer the following questions:

A. Dynamics of the life experiences of former women inmates through the following

aspects:

1. Identification of the Participant (age, civil status, etc.)

2. Developmental History

3. Family Background

4. Academic Background

5. Work Background

6. Medical History

7. Legal History

B. Self-esteem of former women inmates through the following aspects:

1. What is the perceived prison self-esteem of former women inmates?

2. What is the personal self-esteem of former women inmates?

 18

Significance of the Study

This study focuses on exploring the self-esteem of former women inmates. Furthermore,

the findings will be helpful to the following:

Participants. The participants will gain awareness and understanding regarding to their

self-esteem and their own needs such as psychological needs (counselling and psychosocial

interventions) that are when addressed and accommodated, will help them on their way to

recovey and completing their probation and parole.

Social Relationships. This research can help the family members and peers to realize that

they have a huge impact on the self-esteem of the former women inmates. Thus, this study aims

to provide awareness to the family and loved ones of the participants to become more sensitive

and accepting.

Community. It has been observed that former women inmates are being misunderstood by

the community because they are law offenders. Hence, the results of this study will be an eye-

opener to the members of the community. The result of this study will make the members of the

community to be more accepting and will show their support to the former inmates. In addition,

former women inmates will be recognized that they have the chance to start a new beginning

specially to job opportunities. Thus, this research will serve as a step to relate, understand and at

the same time minimize discrimination toward former women inmates.

Researchers. This research will help the researchers deepen their knowledge about their

field and have the opportunity to share this to the community.

 19

Future Researchers. This will be beneficial to the future researchers as their guide and

source of improvements for their future study and the developing knowledge of psychology

research about the self-esteem of former women inmates.

Body of Knowledge. The results of this study will contribute to the growth of body of knowledge,

particularly in the field of Psychology, as well as the effects of prison experiences or

imprisonment to the self-esteem of former women inmates.

Definition of Terms

The following are terms which are operationally defined for better understanding of this

paper.

Self-esteem is a former woman inmate’s self-evaluation of her worth and capabilities as

an individual.

Former Women Inmates refers to the biologically born females who were in prison before

and were completely been released at least three years ago.

Imprisonment refers to the punishment ranging from fines to short or long term in prison.

Prison self-esteem is the former women inmate’s self evaluation within the prison

context.

Personal self-esteem is the former women inmate’s self-evaluation after the prison

context.

Scope and Limitations

This study focused mainly on exploring the perceived prison self-esteem and personal

self-esteem through an in-depth interview. Collection of information for the case history includes
 20

identification of the participant (age, civil status, and religion.), developmental history, family

background, academic background, work background, medical history and legal history.

The participants of this study are limited only to the former women inmates, 18 years old

and above, who have been released from Cagayan de Oro City Jail referred by the City Probation

and Parole Office. Since the researchers obtained qualitative data, self-reported data is limited by

the fact that it can be individually verified, thus, can contain several potential sources of personal

bias. Furthermore, recollection of information may be potentially difficult for some questions

could not be answered in great depth.

 21

CHAPTER II

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study used qualitative type of research. Qualitative research is subjective and seeks

to gain understanding of human behavior and reasons that control such behavior such as

conducting an in-depth interview. Furthermore, the researchers specifically used Inductive

Thematic Analysis approach of Qualitative research. This approach includes identifying and

coding emergent themes within data collected.

Research Environment

This research was conducted inside the City Parole and Probation Administration Office.

The office is located at the 3rd floor, Jofelmor Building, Mortola St., Cagayan de Oro City. The

office has a Regional Conference Room inside in which an in-depth interview is conducive and

safe to be conducted.

Sample and Sampling Procedure

The goal of the research was to conduct in-depth interviews to former women inmates

ago ages 18-60 years old who have been released, to explore their perceived prison self-esteem

and personal self-esteem, as well as their prison experiences. To accomplish this goal, qualitative

method through snowball sampling was employed. The sample of this study consists of five

(N=5) former women inmates from Cagayan de Oro City Jail referred by the City Probation and

Parole Office.
 22

Research Instruments

The validated semi-structured guide questions that formulated by the researchers were

used for data gathering during the in-depth interview. The guide questions focused on the

perceived prison self-esteem and personal self-esteem based on the participants’ prison

experiences. It also explored on the family background, academic background, work

background, developmental history, medical history and legal history of the participants.

Validity and Reliability of Instruments

The in-depth interview semi-structured guide questions were formulated by the

researchers. These questions undergone Forward-Backward translation from English to Visayan

and validation by an expert. The in-depth interview guide questions were semi-structured

grounded by the items from self-esteem measure for prisoner’s scale developed by Boduszek et.

al (2016). It consists of four items for prison specific and another four items for personal self-

esteem. The reliability of the SEM-P factors was assessed using composite reliability. For

personal self-esteem CR=.78 and prison self-esteem CR=.74, which indicates that both have a

good internal consistency.

Research Procedure

The procedure. Please see Appendix A for the calendar of schedules for the rapport

building and final in-depth interview.

In gathering the participants, letter for approval of conducting a research was addressed

to Ms. Evelyn Gille the chief probation and parole officer of City Parole and Probation Office,

(see Appendix B). The content of the letter includes the objective of the study and the
 23

participants needed which is a total of (N=5), as possible, those who have been released, ages

from 18 – 60 years old was indicated in the letter.

In actual data gathering, informed consent was given to the participants highlighting the

purpose of the study and confidentiality. The five (5) participants undergone in-depth interview

which was conducted by the hired Registered Psychometrician for exploration of their perceived

prison specific self-esteem and personal self-esteem. There was a total of two (2) sessions of in-

depth interviews for each participants. During the interview, the information gathered from the

participants were audio-recorded with their consent. The in-depth interview per session lasted for

45 minutes - 1 hour. Debriefing followed which was conducted by the hired professional on the

second and last session to give a proper termination. By the end of this study, the participants

were given the freedom to know the results. However, it will be coming from a collective

perspective and not their individual results.

Data Analysis

The participants’ responses in the in-depth interview was analyzed using Framework

Method, also known as thematic analysis or qualitative content analysis or will be used for the

analysis. Framework Method offers a systematic model for mapping and managing the data,

thus, is an admirable tool for supporting thematic analysis (Gale NK, Heath G, Cameron E,

Rashid S & Redwood S., 2013). There are seven stages of this analysis which the researchers

will follow, and these are Transcription, Familiarisation, Coding, Developing a working

analytical framework, Applying the analytical framework, Charting data into the framework

matrix and Interpreting the data.

 24

Ethical Consideration

Project Details. Data was gathered through an in-depth interview. A validated semi-

structured question were used as a guide for the interview. In-depth interview was conducted by

the hired professional (MA in Psychology practicumer and who is a registered Psychometrician

at the same time). Debriefing followed which was for about twenty (20) minutes.

The thesis proposal was reviewed by a panel of experts in the discipline through a

defense. The researchers’ qualifications, experience and skills are appropriate to the proposed

research. The researchers have conducted previous case studies and researches, which helped the

researchers to acquire facilitating, processing and other relevant skills, that will greatly aid them

in their research.

The research study was done two semesters (A.Y. 2018-2019) June 2018-March 2019 at

Xavier University Ateneo de Cagayan. Data gathering was conducted at City Parole and

Probation Office during specific dates. The results were disseminated to the Xavier University

Community. The participants were also provided with information pertaining to the collected

data but through a collective dissemination of results.

Permission letters were distributed to City Parole and Probation Office informing of the

conduction of research study in their office. Also, the researchers’ thesis moderator was fully

informed of the conduction of the study outside the campus.

The sample size of the participants for qualitative method, age range of the participants, and

where the participants were gathered are clearly specified in the procedure.

Participant Details. In this study, the participants were former women inmates, ages 18

and above, released from Cagayan de Oro City Jail (Lumbia City Jail) and referred by the City
 25

Parole and Probation Office . The participants have been released thus they are no longer

associated to the jail management.

Possible Risks and Risk Management. This study used a validated semi-structured guide

questions for the in-depth interview. The data gathered was audio recorded for educational

purposes with the consent of the participants. In line with this, the chief officer of City Parole

and Probation Administration already approved about the audio recording, as well as the

approval of the participants. There were no diaries and participant observation in a non-public

place without their knowledge. When accessing the personal and confidential data, consent of the

participants was asked. Participants were given the freedom to decline in answering the questions

that seemed sensitive and appeared to be unpleasant during and after the research. At the end of

the study, the participants were debriefed which was facilitated by the hired professional. The

guide questions undergone validation by an expert to minimize possible harm to the participants.

In addition, it is guaranteed that there was no performance of any acts which might reduce the

self-esteem of participants or make them feel embarrassed or guilty.

This is an investigation of participants who are former women inmates from Cagayan

City Jail who are already released. Procedures in this study for data gathering did not involve

deception to the participants. Other concerns such us administration of any substance or agent,

use of non-treatment of placebo control conditions, collection of body fluids or tissue samples,

collection and/or testing of DNA samples, collection and/or testing of gametes or embryo tissue,

participation in a clinical trial, administration of ionizing radiation were not applicable in this

research.

In the actual research, potential risks such as psychological risks, privacy and loss of

confidentiality may arise and are identified in this research. Both the participants and the
 26

researchers were susceptible to these risks. The participants may be at risk when answering the

questions which may or may not result into an emotional trauma. The privacy of the participants

was also at risk whenever questions that are too personal were asked. Moreover, loss of

confidentiality may occur when the data gathered would be disclosed to the public. However,

researchers upheld confidentiality so long as the information disclosed is not harmful to the

researcher, to the participants itself and to society. The researchers were not vulnerable to

psychological and physical risks since in-depth interviews were conducted by the hired

professional. The researchers will be assisted by the chief security officer of Xavier University -

Ateneo de Cagayan and probation and parole thus their safety is not compromised.

All the potential risks that possibly occurred to the researchers mentioned above were

much greater than the usual in daily life. For the participants, the potential benefits of this study

include, but is not limited to, a deeper understanding of their self-esteem and the application of

such awareness to help their adjustment to life outside prison. These potential benefits

outweighed the possible risks that the participants may or may not have experienced.

The researchers were expected to reduce these potential risks. To prevent psychological

harm to the participants, the questions were validated in order to avoid sensitive questions.

Debriefing was facilitated which was done by a trained and licensed professional to ensure that

the participants were well-informed and were not psychologically or physically harmed as well

as to terminate the study properly.

Informed Consent. Informed consents were provided to the participants in the first

session of the data gathering. The content of the consent form highlights the purpose of the study

including the title of the study as well as the terms and conditions of the study. It was indicated

from what University and department the researchers are coming from. The approximated length
 27

of time and possible risks that will occur were specified in the informed consent. It was also

indicated that participation in the study is voluntary and if the participants wish to withdraw

consent and that they may do so anytime. Participants were free to withdraw, even unprocessed

data previously supplied. Moreover, the data gathered in this research will be destroyed at the

end of the study after it will be used solely for educational and research purposes.

Confidentiality/Anonymity. The gathered data was kept with utmost care to protect the

identity and personal information of the participants and to avoid loss of confidentiality. To

ensure this, the participants was anonymized, rather their names, it will be numbers. The

participants were informed when the research will be publicized and code names will be used to

protect and hide the identity of the participants. With the privacy of data, it was securely kept on

electronic devices wherein the researchers can only access. Lastly, the data will be destroyed

after the final research paper will be presented to the panel of interviewers for educational

purposes only.

Other Ethical Considerations of Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP). The

researchers have taken Clinical Psychology course wherein they have studied the Code of Ethics

of the Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP), thus the researchers are

knowledgeable and well-equipped when it comes to principles in researches. In conducting the

study, the researchers followed the standard and ethical measures in gathering the participants

such as obtaining their approval through providing informed consent. The informed consent will

include and describe the nature and procedures of the study. The researchers made sure that the

possible risks during or after the research are explained well to the participants. In addition, a

debriefing session was conducted after the data gathering in order to reduce harmful effects that

the participants may experience after the research.

 28

The actual research was done in City Parole and Probation Office, in this way, it will not

compromise the safety nor expose the identity of the participants. More importantly, the

participants were free to decline in participating and withdraw during their participation with or

without reason. The researchers also secured the personal information of the participants and will

not disclosed to others specifically for third parties unless the participants will give their consent.

Deception was not used to the participants upon doing the research. The identity and the

information collected remained highly confidential and was securely kept throughout the

duration of the study. Furthermore, the researchers followed ethics in conducting the procedures

for data gathering hence, the researchers did not violate any humanitarian, local, or international

laws.
 29

CHAPTER III

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the dynamics of life experiences, perceived prison and personal

self-esteem of a former woman inmate. The dynamics of life experiences of the former women

inmates covers the Developmental, Medical and Legal History, as well as the Family dynamics

and one’s Educational Background. From the interview responses, themes and corresponding sub

themes were highlighted to answer the thesis problem concerning their perceived prison and

personal self-esteem. Furthermore, it aims to identify the direction of their self-esteem within

and after prison context.

Dynamics of the life experiences of Former Women Inmates

Table 1.1 shows the demographic information of the participants which includes their
age, civil status, and religion. The participants age from 27 – 56 years old and three (3) of them
are single while only two (2) participants are legally married. Majority of the participants (4) are
Roman Catholics and only one (1) participant is Non-Catholic specifically Iglesia Ni Cristo.

Table 1.1 Demographic Profile of the Participants

Participant Age Civil Status Religion

No. 1 56 Married Roman Catholic

 30

No. 2 32 Single Roman Catholic

No. 3 27 Single Roman Catholic

No. 4 43 Married Roman Catholic

No. 5 30 Single Iglesia Ni Cristo

While the data stated in Table 1.2, illustrates that most of the participants (3) reported

that they considered the separation of their parents as a family problem that they have

encountered during their childhood while one (1) of the participants has experienced being

separated from her parents and only one (1) reported that she has not experienced significant

family problem in her early years. The participants whose parents separated reported that they

considered it as one of the major turning points that they have experienced in their lives that

affected how they see themselves in the later years and how they interact with others.
 31

In Table 1.2, the participants described how they interact with others when they were still

a child. All of the participants especially those who had family problems during their early

childhood reported that their friendship skills were good wherein they easily get along with

others.

Table 1.2 Developmental History

Participant Family Problem/s Social Skills as a child

No. 1 No significant family Good friendship skills

problem

No. 2 Separation from Parents Good friendship skills

No. 3 Separation of Parents Good friendship skills

No. 4 Separation of Parents Good friendship skills

No. 5 Separation of Parents Good friendship skills

Furthermore, table 1.3 shows the results of the family structure of the participants. Two

(2) of the participants reported that they come from a broken family caused by the separation of

the parents and are raised by a single parent or has a single parent family. One (1) participant
 32

stated that she grew up with a grandparent, also one (1) of the participants mentioned that she is

raised by her step-father together with her biological mother. And out of the five participants,

only one (1) was raised by two parents. The participants who come from broken families

reported that it is one of the factors why they engaged risky behaviors such as involving

themselves to illegal drugs and other law offending behaviors. They believed that their family

problems have led them to do such actions. This is supported by a research which suggests that

the conditions of broken families such as lack of supervision or discipline by a remaining parent,

violence towards children, and the inability to provide necessary love and affection tend to be

predisposed children to commit dangerous activities. Also, children who have gone through such

early life adversity are likely to be exposed with negative community experiences including

rejection from other children which would encourage them to involve themselves to criminal

participation such as joining gangs.

With regard to the socioeconomic status of the participants, all of them belong to the

working class and their parent/s and or guardian is the main provider of their family which is for

them, not enough. All of the participants considered that due to the lack of financial assistance, it

made them to stop from finishing their studies that led them to resort to illegal activities such as

gambling and selling illegal drugs to sustain their basic needs as well as to support their children.

Previous studies shown that the frustration due to economic problems is one of the major

motives to commit crime (Agnew, 2006; Currie, 1998; Hagan, 1994; Jarjoura et al., 2002;

MacLeod, 1995; Sullivan, 1989; As cited by Agnew et al., 2008) And other studies have found

that one’s dissatisfaction of his or her economic situation or status is related to crime (Agnew et

al., 1996; Baron, 2004; Cernkovich et al., 2000; Wright et al., 1999; As cited by Agnew et al.,

2008).
 33

Another factor that is a determinant of children to commit such behaviors is the parenting

styles used by their parent/s and or guardian. It is presented in the Table 1.3 that the common

parenting style used by the parents/guardian of the participants is authoritarian. A research by

Weber (2001) suggests that parenting style significantly affect children’s lives, their

psychological well-being and their personality in their childhood as well as in adulthood. It

hinders children to achieve their full potential and may experience adjustment difficulties during

adulthood.

Table 1.3 Family Background

Participant Family Socioeconomic Occupation of Parenting

Structure Status Parent/Guardian Styles

No. 1 Nuclear Working Class Father (Fisherman) Both

Family Authoritarian
Mother (Seller)

No. 2 Grandparent Working Class Grandmother Authoritarian

Family (Landlady)

No. 3 Single Parent Working Class Father (Construction Authoritarian

Family Worker)
 34

No. 4 Single Parent Working Class Mother (Manicurist) Authoritarian

Family

No. 5 Step Family Working Class Step-father Both

(Unemployed) Authoritarian

Mother (Housewife)

Then table 1.4 indicates the educational attainment of the participants wherein the

majority (3) of them are high school level while one (1) is elementary level and only one (1)

participant reached college level.

Table 1.4 Academic Background

Participant Educational Attainment

No. 1 High School level

No. 2 Elementary level

No. 3 High School level

 35

No. 4 College level

No. 5 High School level

Moreover, in Table 1.5, it shows the work background of the participants. Three (3) of

the participants reported that they are currently unemployed and still looking for a job. While one

(1) participant is self-employed and only one (1) participant has a work or employed as of the

now.

Table 1.5 Work Background

Participant Employment Status

No. 1 Unemployed

No. 2 Self-employed

No. 3 Unemployed

No. 4 Unemployed

No. 5 Employed
 36

Table 1.6 illustrates the medical history of the participants wherein they experienced

health complications. Majority of the participants have experienced serious medical problems

such as accidents and ectopic pregnancy. And only two (2) participants reported that they had no

serious medical problems.

Table 1.6 Medical History

Participant Medical problem

No. 1 No significant medical problem

No. 2 No significant medical problem

No. 3 Had significant medical problem

No. 4 Had significant medical problem

No. 5 Had significant medical problem

 37

Lastly, Table 1.7 shows the type of cases of the participants. Out of the five participants,

three (3) of them violated R.A. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002. While

one (1) participant was charged with violation of ART. 249 of the Revised Penal Code also

known as Homicide and one (1) participant was indicted for violating ART. 195 of the Revised

Penal Code or illegal gambling.

Table 1.7 Legal History

Participant Case

No. 1 ART. 195

No. 2 ART. 249

No. 3 R.A. 9165

No. 4 R.A. 9165

No. 5 R.A. 9165

 38

Self-Esteem of Former Women Inmates

Table 2.1 Perceived Prison Self-Esteem

THEMES SUBTHEMES PARTICIPANT EXEMPLARS

Prison Experience Ambiguity Participant No.1 “...lahi ra gyud ug gikan

ka didto...”

Participant No.2 "...yung una sobrang

takot na takot ako kasi
ano baka totoo ‘yung
napapanood ko sa tv.”

Participant No.4 “...mahadlok na ka

mapriso, mura ka ug
malupda!...”

Separation from Participant No.3 "...kinsa nalay mo alaga

family sa akong anak then
kapoy biya ang kinabuhi
sa prisohan."

Participant No.5 "...nabalaka ko nga dili

nako kagawas, dili nako
makakita sa akong
pamilya."

Cautious Participant No.1 “Gasabay ra ko nila para

wala koy kontra.
Makalakaw ko,
makagawas ko nga
walay kontra. Gasabay
gyod ko.”
 39

Participant No.3 “Bawal man gud didto

mag away2x kay kung
mag away ka, wala man
kay dalaw, i-ban ka, tag-
tulo ka bulan, wala kay
GTA, isa ka tuig.
Mahunong imong GTA,
sayang imong
pagkuan..ang mga tawo
didto magpadaplin lang,
maniid ba”

Participant No.4 “Di ko mutumpang sa

ilaha. For example mag
away-away, ako nalang
maoy mo walk out sa
away. Ako di nalang ko
mutumpang kay kapoy
naman gud kayo,
mudako pa ang
away.”

Participant No.5 “Bawal mana dadto. Kay

silbi kung naa ka sa
prisohan, pamilya naman
gyud mo.”

Activity Participant No.3 "..kung naay activity

Involvement didto mag-apil ko. Kana
pud ang senior high,
mag skwela ko."

Participant No.4 "...naa may mga tasks na

among pang buhaton.
Then ako sa CR man ko
gapanglimpyo.
Pagkahuman, naa napod
koy tasks sa lobby.”
 40

Guilt Shame Participant No.1 "...kapoya jud kayo

sakong naagian oy kay
sa akong nakita didto
grabi gyud labi ng in-ana
bitaw murag salot.”

Participant No.2 "...narealize ko lahat ng

mga ano, mga nagawa
‘kong kasalanan, mga
nagawa ‘kong mali, mga
maling desisyon ng mga
inaano... "

Participant No.3 "Oo, ge blame nako.

Ngano nag sulod-sulod
ko. Maypa ge undangan
na nako ni kontra sa
muabot ug inana
bitaw…"

Participant No.4 "Akong kaugalingon ra

akong gina-blame”

Participant No.5 "…mas gipalabi nako

akong bisyo, akong
lingaw-lingaw. Didto
nako nahuna-huna an
nga di gyud sakto akong
gibuhat…"

Treatment Valued Participant No.1 “Kabalo ko mo dala sa

ila kay nasayod man ko
mao lage akong
gisaligan.”
 41

Participant No.3 “Ang maayo, kay

makipag sharing ka sa
imong mga inmates,
magbuhat ka ug
maayo…”

Participant No.4 “Every mag TC mi kay

chada kayo maka proud
sad ko sakong
kaugalingon ba kay
tanan task nga ihatag
nila sa akoa kay kanang
ga i-affirm
bitaw ko nila.”

Participant No.5 “…gipakita nila kung

unsa ko nila
kapalangga.”

Fair Participant No.1 “Gasabay ra ko nila…”

Participant No.2 “"Hindi naman, nile-

level ko lang yung sarili
ko sa mga kasamahan ko
kasi para sa akin pareho
lang naman tayo tao.”

Participant No.3 “Dili man sad ko ga

judge pud nila.”

Self -Awareness Self-evaluation Participant No.2 “…nung nakulong ako

dun ko narealize lahat-
lahat ng mga mali na
nagawa ko…”
 42

Participant No.5 “Didto nako nahuna-

huna an nga di gyud
sakto akong
gibuhat…"

Participant No.3 ”nakahuna huna ko na

dili diay ‘to maayo
akong gipangbuhat…

Participant No.1 “...muiingon gyud ko

“Ginoo di na
jud ko muutro sa
swertres…”

Participant No.4 "Na realize nako nga

kita tao, dili gyud ta
magbuhat ug dautan kay
para dili ta
maabot didto…”

Social Support Family Participant No.4 “kay gitaga-an ko ug

chance sa akong pamilya
nga makagawas ko…”

Participant No.3 “labaw na karon sa time

na napriso ko,
importante diay gyud ko
sa akong pamilya kay
ga-alaga man gyud sila
sa akoa…”

Participant No.5 “sakit gyod sa

kasingkasing na makita
imong mama pag
piyansa nako. Nag
lambong iyang mata,
siguro wa to katulog sa
sigeg hunahuna sa
ako…”
 43

Participant No.1 “basta kay akong

nakita sa akong
ginikanan kay
puno gyod ilang
pagmahal nako.”

Spirituality Divine Participant No.3 “isa ra gyud akong

Providence maduolan, kanang nag-
ampo ra jud ko..kanang
lord tabangi ko Lord.”

Participant No.4 “…labaw sa tanan ang

Ginoo ba nga gitagaan
ko ug chance nga akong
pong gipangayo nga
taga-i ko ug chance nga
magbag-o ko na para
ipakita nako sa imoha na
lahi na gyud kung mo
gawas ko…”

Participant No.1 “…boutan kay ang

Ginoo kay palangga kay
ko kay gibadlong
man ko kay dili pako
palangga sa Ginoo iya
kong gipasagdan…”

Table 2.1 shows the perceived prison self-esteem of the former women inmates. There

are seven (7) themes common among the participants. Each of the themes has its sub-themes that

indicated different concepts that were related to the given themes. The themes under the

perceived prison self-esteem of the former women inmates with the respective subthemes are the

following: Prison Experiences (Ambiguity, Separation from family, Cautious and Activity
 44

Involvement), Guilt (Shame), Treatment (Valued and Fair), Self-awareness (Self-evaluation),

Social Support (Family) and Spirituality (Divine providence). These themes constitute how the

former women inmates perceive and evaluate themselves within the prison context.

The result shows that separation from family and ambiguity of the situation was found to

be the most commonly stressors at the beginning of an inmate prison experience.”nabalaka ko

nga dili nako kagawas, dili nako makakita sa akong pamilya." They were anxious about what

will happen to them inside the prison because of uncertainty and the family they left behind

especially for those participants who have children. It is believed that the loss of family contact

is the most painful part of imprisonment (Flanagan, 1980; Richards, 1978; As cited by Murray,

2005). The participants also tend to be cautious of their actions inside the prison and follow the

rules and regulations as much as possible and engage with organized activities to avoid having

sanctions that will result to penalties such as no visitation for months and or added stay inside the

prison. For example, “bawal man gud didto mag away2x kay kung mag away ka, wala man kay

dalaw, i-ban ka, tag-tulo ka bulan.” From this statement, it is apparent that the former women

inmates were longing for the presence of their families.

It also shows that the participants are well aware that they are the only ones to be blamed

for the actions that they have done, "Narealize ko lahat ng mga ano, mga nagawa ‘kong

kasalanan, mga nagawa ‘kong mali, mga maling desisyon ng mga inaano ", this is an example of

a statement of guilt. The participants know they are fully responsible for committing the actions

that are against the law but despite of that, they are not ashamed by it and did not use it to define

who they really are because it was part of their past. These guiltful feelings motivated the

participants to accept the consequences, question and correct previous criminal behavior. When
 45

people feel guilty about a specific behavior, they experience tension, remorse and regret over the

“bad thing done”. Research has shown that this sense of tension and regret typically motivates

reparative action - confessing, apologizing, or somehow repairing the damage done (de Hooge,

Zeelenberg, & Breugelmans, 2007; Ketelaar & Au, 2003; Lewis, 1971; Sheikh & Janoff-

Bulman, 2010; Tangney etal., 1996; Wicker, Payne & Morgan, 1983 as cited in Tangney, 2014).

In terms of treatment inside the prison, the participants stated that they feel they were

valued by their fellow inmates, prison officers and their family through affirming their tasks and

by showing that they are loved. This helped them cope with the stressors that they experienced

inside the prison which boosted their confidence “maka proud sad ko sakong kaugalingon ba kay

tanan task nga ihatag nila sa akoa kay kanang ga i-affirm bitaw ko nila.” The results also show

that the participants do not see themselves as above or below with their fellow inmates in terms

of abilities because they believe that they are all equal inside the prison.

Furthermore, during their imprisonment, the participants were becoming aware of their

situation. Under self-awareness, the participants go through self-evaluation wherein they assess

the consequences of their actions. Based from the definition of Self-awareness, it is the ability to

focus on oneself, and then self-evaluate whether in a positive or negative affirmation (Silvia &

O’Brien, 2004, p. 475 as cited in Isom, Evans, & Burkhalter, 2015). Based from the data, it is

evident that the participants realized the consequences of their actions. Thus, as indicated in

Table 2.1, it shows that the participants are self-aware which means that they were conscious

with their perception concerning their own behavior and evaluation.

Despite the stressors that the participants were facing inside the prison, the result shows

that the perceived prison self-esteem of the participants was boosted because of social support.
 46

According to Fournelle & Hofferber (n.d), social support is a major aspect for inmates regarding

their success upon release. Essentially, family is the most significant type of social support.

Family support refers to the relationship between the inmates with their family members where

contact is regular through in person interactions and emotional care (Fournelle & Hofferber, n.d).

Moreover, the data also shows that most of the participants stated that their relationship with

their family was really important to them during their imprisonment and they felt loved and

valued. This is supported by the study of Carlson & Cervera (1991) as cited by Fournelle &

Hofferber (n.d) specifying that a solid family relationship is the greatest predictor of positive

release from prison.

The data in Table 2.1 also indicates that spirituality influences the perceived prison self-

esteem of the participants. Studies point out that spirituality may have a persistent and substantial

affirmative impact on subjective well-being. This affirmative impact of spirituality on human

well-being becomes more evident among individuals under stressful situations such as within the

prison context (Agorastos, Demiralay, & Huber, 2014). This is also supported by Partyka (2001),

the result of the study showed that turning to spirituality is a common coping strategy in dealing

with the stressors inside the prison. For that reason, spirituality is considered a foremost coping

aspect of the participants in their situation in the prison. Hence, most of them believe that there is

a divine providence wherein God has an intervention in their life situation and ability to rule all

things in His desire.

From the statements of the participants, it shows that they have positive outlook in life
such that they view their prison experiences as life-changing that despite their imprisonment,
still, they feel grateful on what they have gone through because it is when they have realized the
 47

significant things in their lives including the importance of their families and divine providence
in which they haven’t thought of before they were imprisoned.

Table 2.2 Personal Self-Esteem of Former Women Inmates

Themes Subthemes Participant Exemplars

Positive Disregards Participant "Wala akong pake… bahala kayo diyan.

Self-esteem judgments No. 2 Humusga kayo ng humusga, hindi ko sila
pakinggan..”

Participant “dili man ko magpa-apekto. Unsaon ta man,

No. 3 dili man ta perpekto. Ang tao naa man jud
pag bag-o, diba?”

Participant “wala koy labot sa ilang istorya basta mo

No. 4 tindog ko sa akong kaugalingon na insakto,
sa sakto na pamaagi.”

Participant “wala koy labot. Wala koy labot. "

No. 5

Self- Participant “kaya ko nga yung nangyari sa akin noon,

confidence No. 2 ngayon pa kaya na nagbabago pa lang ako"

Participant “Taas akong paglantaw, bahala lagig na-

No. 4 priso ko ... Naa japon ko pagsalig sa akong
kaugalingon”

Participant "Ay syempre [taas akong paglantaw sa

No. 5 akong kaugalingon].”

Change of Participant “Maraming nagbago, kumbaga nagiging

social No. 2 mature ako. Iniisip ko ngayon paano ako
behaviors makakain, paano na naman bukas.”

Participant “Lahi na karon … di na pareha sa una nga

No. 3 wala gyod koy pangarap bitaw.”
 48

Participant “maayo na ang dagan… bisan gani mag

No. 4 inom, dili nako mo inom, dili na gyud ko
kay maglikay ko…. magkaon, mag-ampo na
… sa karon lahi nako. Lahi nako, dili nako
mao sa una atong wala pa ko nakuan.”

Participant “Gwapa nako, lahi ra gyud sauna ... chada

No. 5 na akong kinabuhi parehas sa mga ubang tao
ba na normal lang walay bisyo…"

Table 2.2 shows the personal self-esteem of the former women inmates. Positive self-

esteem is the major theme common among the participants indicating that they report positive

self-evaluation of themselves after imprisonment. Positive self-esteem has 3 sub-themes namely

Disregards Judgements, Self-Confidence and Change of Social Behaviors in that indicated

different concepts that were related to the given themes.

The first subtheme results indicate that most of the women tend not to care or be affected

by the negative judgments and opinions of others towards them especially now that they are

former inmates. When asked what their opinions on other people are judging them they,

answered, “Wala koy labot sa ilang istorya basta mo tindog ko sa akong kaugalingon na insakto,

sa sakto na pamaagi.” They acknowledge that there will be criticisms, preconceived notions

from other people brought about by their imprisonment yet they don’t want to be affected by it.

They uphold that their self-worth is not dependent on the opinions of other. They want to focus

on changing themselves rather than dwelling on negative things and comments they cannot

control. One way of transforming their life is by ultimately moving away from criminal behavior

into the role of an individual who no longer engages in a criminal lifestyle (Proctor, 2009).
 49

In regards with the second subtheme, it was found out that these women still likely to

have trust of themselves. Despite the fact that they underwent imprisonment, they feel that they

are capable to carry on with life. From the real successes they are experiencing now and positive

mindset they have, come self-confidence. Getting through their painful past experiences also had

an effect on this self-confidence. An example would be “kaya ko nga yung nangyari sa akin

noon, ngayon pa kaya na nagbabago pa lang ako". This represents that because the individual

had overcome what for her was a difficult situation or problem, leads her to self-awareness, and

will become confident with her capabilities to overcome future challenges. Furthermore, women

tend to undertake more ambitious goals and persist in the face of difficulties when she is

confident in his abilities and efficacy (Benabou and Tirole, 2001). It was also evident in the

study of Abdul Manaf (2016) that positive psychology or the power of positive thinking helps

them cope up with life’s adversities. Self-confidence also leads to dramatic change of self-

representation (Leverentz, 2013) which showed in the results that some of them tend to have a

high regard of themselves. “Taas akong paglantaw, bahala lagig na-priso ko ... Naa japon ko

pagsalig sa akong kaugalingon” an example statement that was said by a participant.

Lastly, the participants showed significant changes in their Social Behavior with

statements like, “Kanang maayo na gyud kaayo akong kuan ba, maayo na ang dagan wala

natay… bisan gani mag-inom, dili nako moinom, dili na gyud ko kay maglikay nako… Magkaon,

mag-ampo na… sa karon lahi nako. Lahi nako, dili nako mao sa una atong wala pa ko nakuan

(imprisoned).” This indicated that after imprisonment, the participants know how to protect

themselves against Social Behaviors that can be detrimental to their reintegration. The

participants direct their social actions that are life-improving, “Iniisip ko ngayon paano ako

makakain, iniisip ko paano naman bukas.” They focus their time on things that matter most,
 50

“Lahi na karon kay naka-focus na ko sa akong pamilya.” Possessing Social Behaviors that are

value-oriented is a characteristic of a person having Positive Self-Esteem since it serves as a

protective foundation against the impact of negative influences (Mann, et al., 2004).

According to Social Identity Theory, a positive evaluation by an individual to his own

group is helpful in fulfilling one’s need for positive self-esteem (As cited in Boduszek, et,. al

2016). Positive evaluations include understanding of a woman that all her imperfections are part

of her humanness, confidence of herself, and embracing self-development. These tends help a

woman to have a positive self-esteem. Now that they are also released, they see themselves as

women who are capable to change for good, and thus, this helps them to enhance their self-

esteem.
 51

CHAPTER IV

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

After a series of sessions from the five participants of this study, the researchers then

were able to come up with the answers from the question of how a woman former inmate’s self-

esteem was while inside the prison and after being imprisoned.

While the participants were still inside the prison, the feeling of ambiguity, anxiety from

separating away from their respective families and self-blaming are the common experiences the

participants had shared on their first few weeks of being imprisoned. The feelings of distress

were very common to each response especially that they had felt the loss of security inside

imprisonment. Moreover, these participants mentioned that they had spent their stay inside the

prison on being so cautious towards their actions and thoughts because of the fear that they might

be harmed; and some might say that they just wanted to comply to the prison’s rules and

regulations in order to avoid being punished. These certain acts of complying have been seen as

one of the characteristics that the participants are using in order to protect their self-esteem. But,

what’s good despite of these prison experiences is that they were able to evaluate their self while

inside the prison, thus increasing their self-awareness. In addition, the strong social support the

participants had received from their families and loved ones were one of the factors that made

them appreciate their self-more and thus making them more optimistic to see their situation in a

positive light. Furthermore, the participants’ faith has strengthened most of them especially that

they strongly hold onto their beliefs on spiritual providence and religious practices while inside

the prison which helped them cope with their difficult situation.
 52

Now, looking on the participants’ personal self-esteem, the impact of imprisonment has

significantly changed the way they see themselves. It is good to note that this impact brought

them into a positive light wherein results reveal that the participants were able to bounce back

from their painful imprisonment experiences which have become the best illustration of a

resilient individual. Aside from that all of them were able to move forward despite what they had

been through and the resiliency of these former inmates were one of the many things the

researchers were not expecting to gather from this study and this is an awe-inspiring to hear that

positive traits such as resiliency will sprout from these experiences.

Furthermore, the growth that these imprisonment experience had brought to the

participants is impressive because it made them realize a lot of things, from their choices up until

to the decisions they are making in the present, are all now grounded with the idea of processing

their decisions thoroughly instead of becoming impulsive or to be swayed easily. Moreover, all

the participants become stronger; they see themselves more valuable and worthy despite the

criticism of other people. Most importantly, these participants are now opening to live a life

better than what they had before; and some are even already living a life that is guided by the

motivation of changing for the better.

Having all of this information towards a former women inmate’s self-esteem, the researchers

would like to recommend the following:

1. Prison will provide an aftercare program that is designed to give counselling and

psychosocial interventions to the participants in order to address their needs

outside the prison and to assist them towards their way to recovery.
 53

2. Intermediate family and significant other of the participants should become more

open and sensitive to the needs of the former inmate especially on strengthening

their social relationship since this is a vital component in improving one’s self-

esteem.

3. The community should be more accepting and understanding on the former

inmate’s needs especially on job opportunities.

4. For the future researchers to explore more on the dynamics of a former inmate’s

self-concept and not only to be limited with the findings of this study. It is best if

future researchers will try to delve on having a quantitative research as well.

REFERENCES
 54

Abdul Manaf, N. (2016). "Female Courage" in Prison Literature in Malaysia and

the Philippines. Retrieved at
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/309038588_Female_Cou
rage_in_Prison_Literature_in_Malaysia_and_the_Philippines

Agnew, R., Matthews, S. K., Bucher, J., Welcher, A. N., & Keyes, C. (2008).
Socioeconomic status, economic problems, and delinquency.
Youth & Society, 40(2), 159-181.

Agorastos, A., Demiralay, C. & and Huber, C. (2014). Influence of religious

aspects and personal beliefs on psychological behavior: focus on
anxiety disorders. Psychol Res Behav Manag. 2014; 7: 93–101.doi:
10.2147/PRBM.S43666

Amanda, M. (2008). Women in Prison; A Review of Current Prison System;

Future Directions and Alternatives. Dissertation, Nothingham
Trent University Internet Journal of Criminology.www.internet
journal of criminology.com

Auman-Bauer, K. (2016).Studying the effects of incarceration on women and

their families. Retrieved from
https://www.google.com/amp/s/phys.org/news/2016-10-effects-
incarceration-wo men-families.amp

Barlow, E. (2014). Understanding women in prison: A review of gender specific

needs and risk assessments and their policy and research
implications.

Baumeister, R. F., Campbell, J. D., Krueger, J. I., & Vohs, K. D. (2003). Does
high self-esteem cause better performance, interpersonal success,
happiness, or healthier lifestyles?. Psychological science in the
public interest, 4(1), 1-44.

Benabou, R., & Tirole, J. (2001). Self Confidence and Motivation. Retrieved from
https://www.princeton.edu/~rbenabuo/papers/CONFQJE2.pdf
 55

Boduszek, D. et,. al (2016). Self-esteem in adult prison population: The

development and validation of the Self-Esteem Measure for
Prisoners (SEM-P). University of Huddersfield, School of Human
and Health Sciences, Ramsden Building, Queensgate,
Huddersfield, HD13DH, United Kingdom.

Bogdanic, A. Strip searching of female prisoners in Queensland. New South

Wales: Women in Prsion Advocacy Network.

Booth, M. & Gerard, J. (2011). Self-esteem and academic achievement: a

comparative study of adolescent students in England and the
United States. NCBI. Published online March 25, 2011. Retrieved
from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3779915/

Bruce, D., and Larweh, E. (2017). Self-esteem, Needs Satisfaction and

Psychological Well-Being of Inmates at James Camp Prison in
Ghana. International Journal of Humanities Social Sciences and
Education. Volume 4, Issue 9, PP 32-39.

Cast, A. D., & Burke, P. J. (2002). A theory of self-esteem. Social forces , 80 (3),
1041-1068.

Deaux, K. (1993). Reconstructing social identity. Personality and social

psychology bulletin, 19(1), 4-12.

Effects of Family Structure on Crime. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://marripedia.org/effects_of_family_structure_on_crime?fbclid
=IwAR1028dv-jVoTHylRe13yhy_DgG-
pVVvG6DdGZmJojnngjRoUpP2z5X_1u4

Fournelle, L.A & Hofferber, S. (n.d). Family Support: What It Means to Male
Inmates

Gale NK, Heath G, Cameron E, Rashid S & Redwood S. (2013). Using the
framework method for the analysis of qualitative data in multi-
 56

disciplinary health research. BMC Medical Research

Methodology, 13:117 doi:10.1186/1471-2288-13-117

Gonzales, I. (2011). A Woman’s life inside. New Internationalist. Retrieved from

https://newint.org/blog/majority/2011/09/26/prison-women-
philippines

Greve, W., & Enzmann, D. (2003). Self-esteem maintenance among incarcerated

young males: Stabilisation through accommodative processes.
International Journal of Behavioral Development, 27(1), 12-20.

Heatherton, Todd F., and Wyland, Carrie L. (2003). “Assessing self-esteem.” Pp.
219-233 in Positive psychological assessment: A handbook of
models and measures, edited by Shane J. Lopez and C. R. Snyder.
Washington, DC, US: American Psychological Association.

Howard, J. A. (2000). Social psychology of identities. Annual review of

sociology, 26(1), 367-393.

Ibrahim, F., Nen, S., Zakaria, E., Manaf, A. A., Mohamad, M. S., & Tsuey, C. S.
(2013). Measuring self-esteem, resilience, aggressive behavior and
religious knowledge among women drug inmates in Malaysia.
Pertanika Journal of Social Science and Humanities,
21(December), 31-43.


Isom, E., Evans, A., & Burkhalter, C. (2015). Examining Self-Awareness and
Perceived Multicultural Competency: Recommendations for
Practitioners and Educators. Ideas and Research You Can Use:
Vistas 2015, Article 4

Jayapaul, A. (2015). Inferiority Complex in relation to their Academic

Achievement among Higher Secondary Students. Retrieved from
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3779915/
 57

Jeffries, S., & Newbold, G. (2016). Analysing trends in the imprisonment of

women in Australia and New Zealand. Psychiatry, Psychology and
Law, 23(2), 184-206.

Johnson, R. B., Onwuegbuzie, A. J., & Turner, L. A. (2007, April). Toward a

Definition of Mixed Methods Research. The Journal of Mixed
Methods Research . 1 (2). 112-113. doi:
10.1177/1558689806298224

Jones, Clarke. (2014). Prison Gangs and Prison Governance in the Philippines.
Asia quarterly. 2. 57-74.

Kamoyo, J. M. (2018). Effects of Imprisonment on Self-Esteem Among Female

Inmates in Selected Prisons in Kenya. European Scientific Journal
June 2018 edition Vol.14, No.17 ISSN: 1857 – 7881 (Print) e -
ISSN 1857- 7431.

Kondrat, D., & Teater, B. (2012). The looking-glass self: Looking at relationship
as the mechanism of change in case management of persons with
severe mental illness. Families in Society: The Journal of
Contemporary Social Services , 93 (4), 2 271-278.

Lumbo, E. (2017). Life Behind Bars (Philippine Jesuit Prison Service). Philippine
Jesuits. Retrieved from https://www.phjesuits.orh/portal/life-
behind-bars-philippine-jesu it-prison-service/

Mann, et al., (2004). Self-esteem in a broad-spectrum approach for mental health

promotion. 19(4), Retrieved from
https://academic.oup.com/her/article/19/4/357/560320

Murray, J. (2005). The effects of imprisonment on families and children of

prisoners. The effects of imprisonment, 442-492.
 58

Ormita & Perez, H. (2012). The Psychological Profile of Incarcerated Women

under the FEU – Project HOPE: A Multiple Case Study.
International Review of Social Sciences and Humanities Vol. 2,
No. 2 (2012), pp. 30-37 www.irssh.com ISSN 2248-9010 (Online).
Retrieved from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280232644_The_Psychol
ogic al
Profile _of_Incarcerated_Women_under_the_FEU_-
_Project_HOPE_A_Multiple_CaseS tudy/download

Oser, C. (2006). The criminal offending-self esteem nexus: Which version of the
self-esteem theory is supported?. The Prison Journal . 86 (344).
DOI: 10.1177/0032885506291024


Partyka, R. (2001). Stress and Coping Styles of Female Prison Inmates.

University of Toledo.

Proctor. J. (2009). The Imprisonment Insights of Female Inmates: Identity &

Cognitive Shifts for Exiting a Criminal Lifestyle. 6(1), Retrieved
from
http://www.cjcj.org/uploads/cjcj/documents/the_imprisonment.pdf

Ragan, M. (2017, June 22). Women and Self-Esteem, by Mary Ragan, PhD,
LCSW. Retrieved July 25, 2018, from https://psinyc.org/women-
and-self-esteem

Ramos, M. (2017). Drug war lands more women in jail. Philippine Daily Inquirer.
Retrieved from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/953118/drug-war-
lands-more-women-in-jail

Rosenberg, Morris (1990). “The Self-Concept: Social Product and Social Force.”
Pp. 593–624 in Social Psychology: Sociological Perspectives,
edited by Morris Rosenberg and Ralph H. Turner. Transaction.

Rosenberg, Morris, Carmi Schooler, Carrie Schoenbach, and Florence Rosenberg.

1995. “Global Self-Esteem and Specific Self-Esteem.” American
Sociological Review 60:141–56.
 59

Sanchez, S. (2017, November 16). Public order, safety, and drugs: Weary,
wicked, wretched data. Retrieved from
http://pcij.org/stories/public-order-safety-and-drugs-weary-wicked-
wretched-data/

Santo, A. (2017). What Is Prison Like for Women and Girls? The Marshall
Project. Retrieved from
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2017/10/10/what-is-prison-
like-for-women-an d-girls

Santos, A. (2018). PHILIPPINES: Welcome to the Women-Friendly Jail. IPS-

Inter Press Service. Retrieved from
http://www.ipsnews.net/2010/11/philippines-welcome-to-the-
women-friendly-jail /

Sexual Abuse in Philippine Detention Emerging as a Human Rights Crisis (2009).

Just Detention International. Retrieved from
file:///C:/Users/Acer/Downloads/FS-Sexual-Abuse-in-Philippine-
Detention-Emer ging-as-a-Human-Rights-Crisis.pdf

Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. (1979). An integrative theory of inter-group conflict. In

J.A. Williams & S. Worchel (Eds.), The social psychology of inter-
group relations (pp. 33-47). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth

Tangney. P., et al. (2014). Two Faces of Shame: Understanding Shame and Guilt
in the Prediction of Jail Inmates' Recidivism. Retrieved from
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4105017/

Terrell, S. (2011). Mixed-methods research methodologies. The Qualitative

Report , 17 (1), 254-280. Retrieved from
http://www.nova.edu/ssss/QR/QR17-1/terrell.pdf

The Condition of Philippine Prisons and Jails (n.d.) THE OPCAT REPORT.
Preda Foundation, Inc. (2018). Retrieved from
 60

https://www.preda.org/media/research-documents/the-condi tion-
of-philippine-pris ons-and-jails/

Weber, A. D. Influence of Family Environment on Self-Esteem and Hostility.

Ylagan, A.H. (2012, June 18). Amor propio. Business World. Retrieved from
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=9&title=Amor-
propio&id=53 608
 61

APPENDICES

Appendix A.1

Letter to the City Parole and Probation Administration

MS. EVELYN A. GILLE

Chief Probation and Parole Officer
City Parole and Probation Administration Office
Cagayan de Oro City

Dear Ms. Evelyn A. Gille:

Peace in Christ!

We are 4th year Bachelor of Science in Psychology students of Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan
taking Psyc 54 (Research in Psychology II). We would like to conduct a research about former women inmates’
prison and personal self-esteem. In line with this, we would like to ask for help from your office for the ten (10)
participants of this research and for the venue. The participants, as possible, who have been released six months -
three years ago. We will conduct in-depth interviews with three (3) sessions for each participants. The objective of
this research is to gather information from the said participants about their prison experiences. Furthermore, date
and time will still be plotted according to the availability of the participants.
For questions and concerns, you may reach us through these numbers:
09088513524 - Diana Via Panal
09059318151 - Julie Anne Opema
We are hoping for your favourable response regarding our request. Your approval will be highly
appreciated and a great help to us. Thank you so much and God bless you.

Respectfully yours,

DIANA VIA PANAL

Group Representative

Noted and approved by:

LUEL MAE Z. PILAYRE-CONTRERAS, RPsy, PhD Cand.

Thesis Adviser
 62

Appendix B.1
Informed Consent for Data Gathering

I allow myself to participate in the study about “Life After Prison: Self-Esteem of Former
Women Inmates” that will be conducted by Fourth year Psychology students from Xavier
University-Ateneo de Cagayan. I know that the purpose of this study is to know and explore my
self-esteem. My participation is voluntary and I have the right to decline or withdraw in
participating in this study at any time without giving a reason.

I understand that the research will involve interviews with two sessions that will only
lasts for about 45 minutes - 1 hour. I am aware that there will be personal questions such as
family, academic, medical background, legal history and prison experiences and I have the right
not to answer or skip some of the questions if I feel uncomfortable. I also understand that I am
free to ask at any time and free to discuss any questions, comments, or clarifications that I would
like to make with the students. I know that the results of this study will have benefits such as
self-awareness and understanding regarding to my self-esteem.

I am aware that these students will follow the correct and ethical processes in gathering
information about me. It is in my knowledge that all of the information that will be gathered will
only be used for educational purposes and it will be destroyed after the students presented their
study in a panel of interviewers. I believe that all the information from this study will only be
between me and the students and it will not be shared with others unless consent is given by me.

I have read the above mentioned information or it has been read to me. I have the
opportunity to ask questions about the study and the questions that I have asked have been
answered to my contentment. I agree to voluntarily participate in this study.

(Approved Consent)

_______________________________
Name and Signature

_______________________________

Date
 63

Appendix B.2

Informed Consent for Data Gathering (Bisaya)

Pagtugot
Ako mitugot nga muapil sa pagtulun-an bahin sa “Life After Prison: Self-Esteem of Former
Women Inmates” nga pagahimuon sa mga Fourth year nga estudyante sa Xavier University-
Ateneo de Cagayan nga nagkuha sa kurso nga Psychology. Nasayod ko nga ang ilang tumong ani
nga kalihokan mao ang pagkabalo ug pag-usisa sa akong self-esteem o panglantaw sa
kaugalingon. Ang akong partisipasyon kay boluntaryo ug naa koy katungod nga mo balibad o
mobiya sa pagpa-apil ani nga pagtulun-an bisan unsang orasa maski dili mohatag ug rason.
Kasabot ko nga kani nga riserts kay mo lakip ug interbiyo/pakighisgot nga naay duha ka
sesyon nga mo dagan lamang ug kwarenta’y singko (45) ka minuto - usa (1) ka oras. Nasayod
ako nga naay personal nga mga pangutana sama sa background sa pamilya, akademiko, medical,
ug legal history ug mga naagian sulod sa prisohan ug naa koy katungod nga dili mo tubag o
labyan ang mga pangutana kung dili ko comportable. Kabalo pud ko nga libre ko mangutana sa
bisan unsang orasa ug mo hisgot sa mga pangutana, komento, klaripikasyon nga akong gusto
ipaambit sa mga estudyante. Kabalo ko nga ang resulta ani nga pagtulun-an kay makahatag ug
benepisyo sama sa kaamgohan bahin sa akong kaugalingon o self-awarness ug pagsabot bahin sa
akong self-esteem o paglantaw sa kaugalingon.
Nasayod ako nga kani nga mga estudyante musunod sa saktong proseso sa pagkuha sa
mga impormasyon mahitungod kanako. Naa sa akong kahibalo nga tanan nga makuha nga
impormasyon mahitungod niini gamiton lamang sa saktong tumong alang sa ilang edukasyon.
Ang mga impormasyon nga makuha gikan sa akoa kay gision paghuman i-representar sa mga
estudyante. Nagtuo ako nga tanan impormasyon aning among panag-istorya amo-amo lamang ug
dili ibutyag sa ubang tawo gawas kung mitugot ako.

Akong nabasa ang mga kasayoran ug kani sad gibasa sa akoa. Naa koy oportunidad na
mangutana bahin sa ilang riserts ug nakuntento ko sa mga tubag nila sa akong mga pangutana.
Uyon ko na mu-partisipar ani nga pagtuon.

(Approved Consent)

_______________________________
Pangalan ug pirma

_______________________________
Gipirmahan nga Petsa
 64

Appendix C.1
In-depth Interview Guide Questions
Note: Questions can be optional/changeable depending on the participant’s answers.
Engagement Questions:
1. What positive things can you say about yourself?
Unsa man na mga positibo na mga butang ang maingon nimo sa imong kaugalingon?
Research Questions:
Identification of the Participant (age, civil status, etc.)

● What do you prefer to be called? Unsa imo gusto itawag namo sa imuha?

● How old are you? Pila imong edad?

● When is your birthday? Kanus-a ka na-tawo?

● What is your weight and height? Unsa imong timbang ug katas-on?

● What is your religion? Unsa imong relihiyon?

● Are you married? Minyo na ba ka?

● What do you like most in terms of color, food, place, things, animals, song, movies,

books, quotation/sayings, kind of clothes, games, social media applications, drinks, work,

characteristic of a person and yourself? Unsa imo ganahan na color? pagkaon? lugar?

gamit? hayop? kanta? salida? libro? sayings? klase na sanina? dula? social media

applications? mainom? trabaho? sa isa ka tao? sa imuhang kaugalingon?

● What is your daily routine? Unsa imo naandan na buhaton sa isa ka adlaw?

● What is/are your talents? Unsa imong talento?

Developmental History

● Do you still remember your infant days? Was it normal delivery or cesarean?

Kahinumdom pa ba ka atong bata pa ka? Normal delivery ba ka or cesarean?

 65

● What age did you start talking? Walking? Pila imo edad atong nakabalo naka ug litok?

lakaw?

● Do you always play when you were still a kid? What do you play? Sige ba ka ug dula

katong bata pa ka? Unsa pud imong ginadula?

● Do you easily get along with other kids? with older people? with younger people? Dali

raba ka magkaayon o maki-amiga/amigo sa lain na bata? sa mga mas tigulang pa nimo?

sa mga mas bata pa nimo?

● What do you like to do when you were still a kid? Unsa man imong ganahan buhaton

atong bata pa ka?

● What do you like about yourself when you were still a kid? you least like? Unsa imong

ganahan sa imong kaugalingon atong bata pa ‘ka?

● What do other people always describe you as a kid? Unsa kasagara ginabatbat sa lain

tao isip isa ka bata?

● What is your best childhood memory? Unsa imong dili malimtan na memorya atong bata

pa ‘ka?

● Were you been in an accident before? What kind of accident? Naaksidente na ba ‘ka

sauna? Unsa pud ni?

Family Background (questions will depend on the initial family background of the participant)

● Can you tell me about your family? Pwede ba ‘ko nimo ignan mahitungod sa imong

pamilya?

● How many are you in the family? Pila diay mo sa inyong pamilya?

● What was/were your mother’s occupation/s before and now? How old is she? Can you

describe your mother as a mother? Is she always present since you were a baby? Naa ba
 66

ka’y mama? Unsa iya trabaho sauna? karon? Pila na iya edad? Pwede ba nimo

mabatbat unsa isa ka mama imong mama? Perminte ba siya naa sukad pagkabata?

● What was/were your father’s occupation/s before and now? How old is he? Can you

describe your father? Unsa iya trabaho sa sauna? karon? Pila na iya edad? Pwede ba nimo

mabatbat unsa isa ka papa imong papa? Perminte ba siya naa sukad pagkabata?

● Do you have siblings? How many are them? How many are girls? boys? How old are

they now? Do you have a favorite brother/sister? What is the reason she/he is your

favorite? Do you have a least favorite sibling? What is the reason you least like him/her?

● What was your source of income before? Unsa’y kakuhaan ninyo ug kinitaan sauna?

● How do your parents discipline you? Ginaunsa ka pag disiplina sa imong ginikanan?

● What are your important values, beliefs and rules in your home? Unsa inyo importanteng

mga hiyas sa pamilya, tinuhuan, ug mga mando sa inyong balay?

● Does anyone in your family has/had a mental illness or disabilities? Naa ba’y isa ka

myembro sa inyong pamilya na naa’y kondisyon sa paghuna-huna o lawasnong kakilian?

Academic Background

● Where did you study during your preschool? elementary? highschool? college? Asa ka

ga-skwela atong preschool, elementary, high school ug college?

● Do you get along with your classmates, schoolmates, and teachers? Dali raba ka maki-

uyon sa imong mga klasmeyt, skulmeyt ug mga titser?

● What did your classmates, schoolmates, and teachers describe you? Unsa kasagara

ginabatbat sa imong klasmeyt, skulmeyt ug mga titser sa imo?

● Were you an achiever before? Achiever ba ka sauna?

 67

● How do you see yourself as a student? Unsa imo paglantaw sa imo kaugalingon isip usa

ka estudyante?

● Do you join any organizations before? Ga-apil ba ka ug mga organisasyon sauna?

Medical History

● Were you been hospitalized before? Nahospital na ba ka sauna?

● Do you have an illness? How does your illness affect the way you see yourself? Naa ba

kay sakit? Kung naa, unsa ang epekto ani sa paglantaw nimo sa imong kaugalingon?

Legal History

● What is your case? What is/are the reason/s you committed it? Unsa imuhang kaso?

Unsay rason/mga rason na nabuhat ‘to nimo?

● How long were you imprisoned? Unsa ka kadugayon naa sa prisohan?

Perceived prison-specific self-esteem questions:

● Unsa ka kanunay gakabati nimo na mas maayo ka kaysa sa mga kauban nimo atong naa
paka sa prisohan?
How often do you feel you are better than most of the inmates you know when you were
still in prison?
● Kung naay grupo sa mga kauban nimo sa prisohan, galisod ba ka ug hunahuna sa insakto
na iistorya?
When in a group of inmates, do you have trouble thinking of the right things to say?
● Unsa ka kanunay gakabalaka sa ginahunahuna sa imong mga kauban sa prisohan bahin sa
imoha?
How often are you bothered about what other inmates think of you?
● Unsa ka kanunay gakabalaka na ang uban kauban nimo sa prisohan kay naay dili
maayong opinyon sa imo?
How often do you worry that other inmates might have an unfavorable opinion of
yourself?

Personal self-esteem questions:

● Unsa ka kanunay gakabati nimo na mabuhat nimo ug ayo ang bisan unsa nga butang?
How often do you feel that you can do anything well?
 68

● Unsa ka kanunay gahunahuna na takos ka o naa kay importansya?

How often do you think you are worthy?
● Naa ba kay taas na opinyon sa imong kaugalingon?
Do you have a high opinion of yourself?
● Unsa ka kanunay ganahan sa imong kaugalingon?
How often do you like yourself?

Current
● How do other people including your family, friends, and neighbors see you as a person?
Are there changes compared to the time you were not yet imprison? when you were
already imprisoned? and now that you’re already released from prison? Does their
perception about you had an affect on the way you see yourself? Unsa’y paglantaw sa
mga tao sa imo karon sama sa imong pamilya, amigo/amiga, silingan ug uban pang tao?
Naa ba’y pag bag-o kompara atong wala pa ka napriso? atong naa pa ka sa prisohan?
karon na nakagawas na ‘ka sa prisohan? Naa ba’y epekto ilang paglantaw sa imo sa
imong paglantaw sa imong kaugalingon?

Exit Question:
6. Do you have anything else to share or add?
Naa ba kay gustong i-ambit na dugang?
 69

Appendix D

Proposed Calendar of Activities

 70

Optional - If ever participants are not available in the said dates

 71

Appendix E

Researchers Qualifications

(see next pages)

 72

ABUCAY, KAREN D.
Zone 3, Baungon St., Upper Solana, Jasaan, Mis. Or.
karenabucay2@gmail.com
0956 654 2060

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Bachelor of Science in Psychology Xavier University Ateneo de Cagayan
Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro
June 2015 – present
SKILLS

1. Analyze data and performed a quantitative research on Fundamental Statistics

(Psyc 41)
2. Written a Case Study on Personality and Human Development course (Psyc 32
and Psych 33)

3. Conducted a Mental Status Examination on various Psychology courses

4. Written a detailed transcription of interviews on Abnormal Psychology (Psyc 36)

5. Conducted a Focus Group Discussion on Psychological testing I (Psych 42.1)

6. Created a Psychological Scale on Psychological testing II (Psyc 44)

7. Written and performed an experimental study on Experimental Psychology (Psyc

46)
8. Conceptualized and Executed Pagdadala Model (Psyc 62)

9. Efficient in MS Word, Powerpoint, Excel

10. Knowledgeable in IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and
Statistica
 73

WORKSHOPS ATTENDED

· Assessment and Intervention for Children and Adolescents using Creative

Experessive Approaches (4th Northern Mindanao Psychology Convention)
February 8-10, 2018

RESEARCH CONDUCTED

· Epekto ng Pagbabasa sa Iba’t-ibang Aspeto ng Buhay ng mga Piling Estudyante

ng COC-PHINMA sa ika-9 at 10 na baiting, A.Y. 2015-2016
· An Analysis of Grit Level Among Athletic Scholars of Xavier University-Ateneo de
Cagayan: Psychological Statistics Student Mini-Research, A.Y. 2016-2017

· “Kiarah”: A Case Study on Personality and Human Development, A.Y. 2016-2017

· A Measurement of Empowerment Among Xavier University – Ateneo de
Cagayan, A.Y. 2017-2018

· The Effects of Coffee Brand Names on Consumer’s Perception (An Experimental

Research Report), A.Y. 2017-2018
· “James”: A Case Study on Abnormal Psychology, A.Y. 2017-2018

· An Analysis of Satisfaction Level on Employees Participation in Quality Circle at

Philippines Sinter Corporation: Practicum Requirement, April 2018- June 2018

WORK EXPERIENCE
Philippine Sinter Corporation

Internship | April 2018 – June 2018

· Interviewed Job Applicants in a Job Fair at Phividec

· Maintained and organized numerous office files

· Did Summary Reports on Employees Hospitalization and Benefits and
Contractors Requirements

Balulang Elementary School

Service Learning Program | August 2017 – October 2017

 74

· Assisted in facilitating psychosocial activities prepared for the Internally Displaced

Learners

Journey Homes Wellness Center

August 2017 – September 2017

· Did a Case Study of a recovering substance abused person.
 75

NOYNAY, LASSENY P.

Zone 10, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis

Oriental
lassenycarmela@gmail.com

0945 427 7477

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan

Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro
June 2015 – present

SKILLS
1. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint

2. Knowledgeable in IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and
Statistica
3. Analyze data and performed a quantitative research on Fundamental Statistics
(Psyc 41)
4. Written a Case Study on Personality and Human Development course (Psyc 32
and Psych 33)

5. Conducted a Mental Status Examination on various Psychology courses

6. Written a detailed transcription of interviews on Abnormal Psychology (Psyc 36)
7. Conducted a Focus Group Discussion on Psychological testing I (Psych 42.1)

8. Created a Psychological Scale on Psychological testing II (Psyc 44)

9. Written and performed an experimental study on Experimental Psychology (Psyc
46)

10. Executed Pagdadala Model (Psyc 62)

 76

WORKSHOPS ATTENDED

· Psychotrauma Management and Intervention (3rd Northern Mindanao Psychology

Convention, February 9-11, 2017)
· Psychological First Aid (3rd Northern Mindanao Psychology Convention, February
8-10, 2017)
· Emergency First Aid Training (Xavier University Red Cross Youth, August 20,
2017)

· Youth Disaster Risk Reduction Management Training (Bulua Youth Task Force,
December 10-11, 2016)

RESEARCH CONDUCTED
· The predictive role of Grit and Internal Locus of Control on Academic
Performance of Accountancy Students in Xavier University: Psychological Statistics
Mini Research, A.Y. 2016-2017

· “Peppa”: A Case Study on Personality and Human Development, A.Y. 2016-2017

· A Measure of the Attitude of Young Adults towards Romantic Level, A.Y. 2017-
2018

· The Effects of Intimate LGBT Videos of the Tolerance Level of the Xavier
University Engineering Students towards Same Sex Relationship (An Experiment
Research Report), A.Y. 2017-2018
· “Archi”: A Case Study on Abnormal Psychology, A.Y. 2017-2018
· Cognitive Restructuring: Final Output on Cognitive Psychology, A.Y. 2017-2018

WORK EXPERIENCE
House of Hope Foundation Inc.

Internship | May 2018

· Performed an Intake Clinical Interview

· Facilitated Clinical Assessment

· Written a Psychological Assessment Report
 77

Camaman-an Elementary School

Service Learning Program | August 2017 – October 2017

· Collaborated with the senior Psychology students in facilitating the SLP

· Facilitated a one session of activity that includes psychosocial activity prepared

for the Internally Displaced Learners
· Written an executive summary of the whole SLP experience
 78

OPEMA, JULIE ANNE D.

Mindanao Homes, Pagatpat, Cagayan de Oro City

julime4@gmail.com
0905 931 8151

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan

Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro
June 2015 – present

SKILLS

1. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint

2. Knowledgeable in IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and
Statistica

3. Analyze data and performed a quantitative research on Fundamental Statistics

(Psyc 41)
4. Written a Case Study on Personality and Human Development course (Psyc 32
and Psych 33)
5. Conducted a Mental Status Examination on various Psychology courses
6. Written a detailed transcription of interviews on Abnormal Psychology (Psyc 36)

7. Conducted a Focus Group Discussion on Psychological testing I (Psych 42.1)

8. Created a Psychological Scale on Psychological testing II (Psyc 44)

9. Written and performed an experimental study on Experimental Psychology (Psyc

46)
10. Executed Pagdadala Model (Psyc 62)
 79

WORKSHOPS ATTENDED

· Assessment and Intervention for Children and Adolescents using Creative

Expressive Approaches (4th Northern Mindanao Psychology Convention, February
8-10, 2018)

RESEARCH CONDUCTED

· Epekto ng Peer Pressure sa mga Estudyante sa Pamantasan ng Xavier, A.Y.

2015-2016
· An Analysis of Grit Level Among Athletic Scholars of Xavier University – Ateneo
de Cagayan: Psychological Statistics Student Mini-Research, A.Y. 2016-2017
· “Kiarah”: A Case Study on Personality and Human Development, A.Y. 2016-2017

· A Measurement of Close Family Ties Among Filipino College Students, A.Y. 2017
– 2018
· The Effects of Men’s Socioeconomic Status and Academic Intelligence on
Women’s Perception in Interpersonal Attraction (An Experimental Research Report),
A.Y. 2017 -2018

· “Lang Leav”: A Case Study on Abnormal Psychology, A.Y. 2017-2018

· An Analysis of Satisfaction Level on Customer Service and Relations at Capitol
University Medical Center: Practicum Requirement, April 2018 – June 2018

WORK EXPERIENCE

Capitol University Medical Center

Intern | April 2018 – June 2018

· Interviewed Job Applicants in Job Hiring at CUMC

· Proctored the General Qualification Exam of the Accounting Staff Applicants

· Did Evaluation Reports of the Employees

· Did Employment Report (SSS)
 80

House of Hope Foundation Inc.

Service Learning Program | August 2017 – October 2017

· Did a Case study of a client with schizophrenia at the institution
 81

PANAL, DIANA VIA D.

Block 1, Lot 2 La Mirande Crest, Gran Europa,

Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro City

viapanal98@gmail.com
0908 851 3524

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan

Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro
June 2015 – present

SKILLS
1. Adept in Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel

2. Knowledgeable in IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)

3. Analyze data and performed a quantitative research on Fundamental Statistics
(Psyc 41)

4. Written a Case Study on Personality and Human Development course (Psyc 32

and Psych 33)
5. Conducted a Mental Status Examination on various Psychology courses

6. Written a detailed transcription of interviews on Abnormal Psychology (Psyc 36)

7. Conducted a Focus Group Discussion on Psychological testing I (Psych 42.1)

8. Created a Psychological Scale on Psychological testing II (Psyc 44)

9. Written and performed an experimental study on Experimental Psychology (Psyc
46)

10. Executed Pagdadala Model (Psyc 62)

WORKSHOPS ATTENDED
· Psychology in Times of Crisis: 4th Northern Mindanao Psychology Convention,
February 8-10, 2018
 82

RESEARCH CONDUCTED
· An Analysis of Grit Level Among Athletic Scholars of Xavier University – Ateneo
de Cagayan: Psychological Statistics Student Mini-Research, A.Y. 2016-2017

· Peppa”: A Case Study on Personality and Human Development, A.Y 2016-2017

· A Measurement of Empowerment Among Xavier University – Ateneo de
Cagayan, A.Y. 2017-2018

· The Effects of Coffee Brand Names on Consumer’s Perception (An Experimental

Research Report), A.Y. 2017-2018
· “James”: A Case Study on Abnormal Psychology, A.Y. 2017-2018

· “Dodong”: A Case Study on Clinical Psychology: Practicum Requirement, April

2018- May 2018

WORK EXPERIENCE
City Social Welfare and Development

Intern | April 2018 – May 2018

· Conducted Mental Status Examination

· Written a Case Study and Psychological Report

· Conducted Kinetic Family Drawing (KFD) and Kinetic School Drawing (KSD)
Assessment

· Facilitated a module

Balulang Elementary School

Service Learning Program | August 2017 – October 2017

· Assisted in facilitating psychosocial activities for Internally Displaced learners.

Journey Homes Wellness Center

August 2017 – September 2017

· Did a Case Study of a recovering substance abused person.
 83

PATICA, IRISH JANE B.

St. Bridget Homes, Yacapin St., Cagayan de Oro

irishjanebpatica@gmail.com

0906 573 4590

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan

Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro
June 2015 – present

SKILLS
1. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel

2. Knowledgeable in IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)

3. Analyze data and performed a quantitative research on Fundamental Statistics
(Psyc 41)

4. Written a Case Study on Personality and Human Development course (Psyc 32

and Psych 33)
5. Conducted a Mental Status Examination on various Psychology courses

6. Written a detailed transcription of interviews on Abnormal Psychology (Psyc 36)

7. Conducted a Focus Group Discussion on Psychological testing I (Psych 42.1)

8. Created a Psychological Scale on Psychological testing II (Psyc 44)

9. Written and performed an experimental study on Experimental Psychology (Psyc
46)

10. Executed Pagdadala Model (Psyc 62)

WORKSHOPS ATTENDED
· Assessment and Intervention for Children and Adolescents using Creative
Expressive Approaches (4th Northern Mindanao Psychology Convention, February
8-10, 2018)
 84

· Psychotrauma Management and Intervention (3 rd Northern Mindanao Psychology

Convention, February 9-11, 2017)

RESEARCH CONDUCTED

· Mga Salik at Epekto sa Pagpili ng kurso ng mga Mag-aaral sa Pamantasan ng

Xavier University Ateneo de Cagayan, A.Y. 2015- 2016
· Sex Differences towards Psychological Stress Resiliency: Psychological Statistics
Student Mini-Research, A.Y. 2016-2017
· “Ma’am G”: a Case Study on Personality and Human Development, Presented on
Psychology Students Summit, A.Y. 2016-2017

· A Measure of the Attitude of Young Adults towards Romantic Level, A.Y. 2017-
2018
· The Effects of Intimate LGBT Videos of the Tolerance Level of the Xavier
University Engineering Students towards Same Sex Relationship (An Experiment
Research Report), A.Y. 2017-2018

· “Archi”: A Case Study on Abnormal Psychology, A.Y. 2017-2018

· Cognitive Restructuring: Final Output on Cognitive Psychology, A.Y. 2017-2018

· “Jes”: Psychological Assessment Report on Practicum, April 2018 – June 2018

WORK EXPERIENCE
Department of Health – Treatment and Rehabilitation Center
Intern | April 2018 – June 2018
· Checking, Scoring, and Interpretation of tests
· Performed an intake clinical interview

· Facilitated clinical assessment

· Written a psychological assessment report

Camaman-an Elementary School

Service Learning Program | August 2017 – October 2017

 85

· Collaborated with the senior Psychology students in facilitating the SLP

· Facilitated a one session of activity that includes psychosocial activity prepared

for the Internally Displaced Learners
· Written an executive summary of the whole SLP experience
 86

SOTTO, DANNICA ADELINE F.

Zone 1, Taytay, El Salvador City

unicahija.sotto@gmail.com

0932 186 3118

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Bachelor of Science in Psychology Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan

Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro

June 2015 – present

SKILLS
1. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel

2. Knowledgeable in IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)

3. Analyze data and performed a quantitative research on Fundamental Statistics
(Psyc 41)

4. Written a Case Study on Personality and Human Development course (Psyc 32

and Psych 33)
5. Conducted a Mental Status Examination on various Psychology courses

6. Written a detailed transcription of interviews on Abnormal Psychology (Psyc 36)

7. Conducted a Focus Group Discussion on Psychological testing I (Psych 42.1)

8. Created a Psychological Scale on Psychological testing II (Psyc 44)

9. Written and performed an experimental study on Experimental Psychology (Psyc
46)

10. Executed Pagdadala Model (Psyc 62)

 87

WORKSHOPS ATTENDED

· Stress Management and Intervention (3rd Northern Mindanao Psychology

convention, February 9-11, 2017)

RESEARCH CONDUCTED
· Epekto ng Pagbabasa sa Iba’t-ibang Aspeto ng Buhay ng mga Piling Estudyante
ng COC-PHINMA sa ika-9 at 10 na baiting, A.Y. 2015-2016

· An Analysis of Grit Level Among Athletic Scholars of Xavier University-Ateneo de

Cagayan: Psychological Statistics Student Mini-Research, A.Y. 2016-2017
· “Kiarah”: A Case Study on Personality and Human Development, A.Y. 2016-2017

· A Measurement of Empowerment Among Xavier University – Ateneo de

Cagayan, A.Y. 2017-2018
· The Effects of Coffee Brand Names on Consumer’s Perception (An Experimental
Research Report), A.Y. 2017-2018
· “James”: A Case Study on Abnormal Psychology, A.Y. 2017-2018

WORK EXPERIENCE
City Social Welfare and Development

Intern | April 2018 – June 2018

· Conducted case study

· Delivered modules on client’s self-esteem

Balulang Elementary School

Service Learning Program | August 2017 – October 2017

· Assisted in facilitating psychosocial activities for Internally Displaced learners.

Journey Homes Wellness Center

August 2017 – September 2017

· Did a Case Study of a recovering substance abused person.
 88

Appendix F

Some pictures during sessions