Filipino Parentification on the Eldest Child Enrolled as a Senior High School at De La Salle University - Dasmariñas High School: An Exploration of its Effects on Interpersonal Relationships with Friends

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Naraeshcka Nailah Molina Lumba, De La Salle University, DasmarinasFollow
Ron Antoine Ramirez Corpuz, De La Salle University, DasmarinasFollow
Maria Jhemille Lopez Dela Cruz, De La Salle University, DasmarinasFollow
Nica Angela Guarin Dulce, De La Salle University, DasmarinasFollow
Ruzzlyn Myles Briones Manay, De La Salle University, DasmarinasFollow
Dhey Zamyuel Gonzales Masilang, De La Salle University, DasmarinasFollow
Miguel Guillen Buhay Orozco, University of Santo TomasFollow
Fionah Zoe Lopez Pros, De La Salle University, DasmarinasFollow
Isaac Christian Basa Rafio, De La Salle University, DasmariñasFollow

Document Type

Paper Presentation

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Rafio, Isaac Christian B.

Abstract/Executive Summary

This study examined Filipino parentification among eldest children enrolled as senior high school students at De La Salle University – Dasmariñas, focusing on its impact on friendships. Grounded in Role Theory, it explored how premature parental responsibilities shape social interactions using a qualitative phenomenological approach with semi-structured interviews. Findings indicate that eldest children often assume caregiving, emotional support, and decision-making roles, fostering maturity and resilience, but also leading to trust issues, emotional distancing, and difficulties in maintaining friendships. Certain individuals tend to adopt parental roles within friend groups, while some seek nurturing relationships akin to a ‘youngest’ sibling dynamic. Cultural expectations—such as ‘utang na loob,’ responsibilities centered on birth order, and prioritization of family over self—intensify these effects, shaping participants’ externalized self-worth and relational struggles. Parentification also influences perspectives on family-building, with some reluctant to establish their own families due to childhood stress, while others express interest in parenthood under stable conditions. Given the minimal research on Filipino parentification, this study highlights the importance of expanding scholarly resources, exploring its impact on various life domains, and investigating its correlation with gender and family dynamics. To address these challenges, educational institutions should establish awareness programs, psychosocial interventions, and peer support groups to assist parentified students in maintaining emotional well-being and healthy relationships. By broadening the scope of research and institutional support, the study aims to deepen understanding and provide practical solutions for individuals experiencing Filipino parentification.

Keywords

Filipino studies; Filipino parentification; Filipino philosophy; Filipino psychology; interpersonal relationship