Understanding the Lived Experiences of Children in Conflict with the Law Undergoing Rehabilitation Process

With the current status of the CICL in the Philippines, rehabilitation centers have various challenges. In this study, the researcher explored the lived experiences of Children in Conflict with Law undergoing Rehabilitation Process, using qualitative methods. Respondents were 19 children in conflict with the law in two (2) rehabilitation centers: five (5) at Bahay Pag-Asa in San Juan and (14) at Marillac Hills. A semi-structured interview was administered and analyzed through Thematic Analysis. The validity of the theme was analyzed using a triangulation method. Result showed eight (8) major themes including emotional impact of institution/rehabilitation, positive impact of the facility, feedback and suggestions for improvement, disrupted family structures and attachment issues, social environment as a catalyst for criminality, psychosocial maladaptation and identity struggles, economic hardship and survival strategies, and emotional despair and psychological distress, which altogether comes with twenty-four (24) subthemes.