Lived Experiences of First Born Male Children: a Phenomenological Study

Authors

  • Allaiza Mae S. Ramos
  • Kyla Hyacinth J. Baldopea

Keywords:

first born, male children, live experiences, birth order

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Alfred Alder's theory of birth order influenced many researchers to conduct studies related to birth order. Past researches focused on the differences in the birth order. These differences were attributed to the distinctive experiences that each child has as a member of a social group. However, no study focused on live experiences of male children was found. In this study, the researchers determined the live experiences of first born male children.

 

METHODS

This study used the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to explore the live experiences of six male children in being the first born in their family. Researchers used an in-depth, semi-structured interview as a tool in gathering data. Participants were identified using purposive sampling and snowball technique and guided by the following criteria: (a) male, (b) first born, (c) has a sibling/ has siblings, (d) resides in specific barangays of Trece Martires City, and (e) willing to participate in the study. Interviews were transcribed for the data analysis. After reading and analyzing the data, three master themes were emerged from the data: (1) struggles of first born male children, (2) involvement of their parents and sibling/s, and (3) roles of first born male children in the family.

 

RESULTS

Based on the results of the study, participants experienced difficulties because of their responsibilities as the first born of their family. The respondents also tend to practice leadership because of their roles in the family. Most of the participants feel pressured because of parent expectations. The researchers also found out that majority of the respondents experienced being compared with their siblings and receive fewer amount of attention from their parents than theirsibling/s.

 

DISCUSSIONS

The results of the study showed that the experiences of first born male children are characterized by pressure, need for authority, and lack of attention. The inclusion of their relationship with their sibling/s and parents has a significant impact on how they develop distinct characteristics and behaviours that affects their live experiences.

Published

2019-01-18