Caring for children in conflict with the law : from the diaries of social workers

Abstract

This qualitative multiple case study explored the experiences of social workers handling children who are in conflict with the law in the different rehabilitation centers in Region XI. Informants were five registered social workers from rehabilitation centers managed by the national government and the local government units. The in-depth interview provided the lived experiences, how the social woker cope with the issues and challenges and their insights which can benefit social workers caring for children in conflict with the law. Results revealed the different themes for each research question. On the lived experiences, these are trials and tribulations of the vocation, using inspired and creative approaches, facilitating structures and systems, dealing with defiance and insolence, opportunities for personal and professional growth and fulfillment and self-actualization. On the coping mechanisms, six themes emerged. Being resolute and steadfast, being optimistic and confident, rejuvenation and renewal, tapping support systems, grounding and training, teamwork and cooperation. On the learning insights, five emerged. Fair treatment and respect for CICL, perseverance and unrelentance, professionally and personally equipped, exasperating work with CICL and rewarding work with CICL. This study has implications in public administration in the context of social work and juvenile justice on how to develop the capacity of the workers to handle and cope with the challenges in the field. Keywords: public administration, children in conflict with the law, CICL, social workers, lived experiences, coping mechanism, Philippines