Children in Conflict with the Law in Single-parent Families: A Case Study

Abstract

Studies have shown that relationships in the family and the roles that each member plays affect the socialization and upbringing of children. Thus, questions have been raised about children with single parents and in a rehabilitative environment after being accused of committing offenses. This qualitative study focused on Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) from single-parent families. Using the case study’s idiographic approach, the researcher identified the participants through homogenous purposive sampling based on undergoing Case Management at the Social Development Center, a facility for CICL in Bacolod City. Interviews and focus group discussions were conducted to deepen the understanding of the participants’ experiences and to categorize the results. Findings from this study support the researcher’s hypothesis that children raised in homes with one or both parents absent may be prone to deviant behavior due to their family dynamics. The theories mentioned in this study proved that delinquency is associated with the type of family structure and some underlying factors rooted in the type of family structure which, in this case, are the single-parent family structures. Lastly, through the narratives transcribed, this study uncovered the resiliency and vision of both the CICL and the parents. This study has also brought up more recommendations for the further exploration of future researchers.