DIFFICULTIES ENCOUNTERED BY ADOLESCENTS OF SELECTED MUNICIPALITIES IN DISTRICT IV, NUEVA ECIJA WITH A HISTORY OF CHILDHOOD TRAUMA AND THEIR ADAPTIVE COPING MECHANISMS

Abstract

Childhood trauma refers to significantly distressing and harmful events that occur during a child’s early years, often resulting from abuse, neglect, or exposure to violent situations. This study explored the difficulties encountered by adolescents with a history of childhood trauma and the adaptive coping mechanisms they employ. This study employed a phenomenological research design using a qualitative approach. The research was conducted in selected municipalities in District IV, Nueva Ecija. Twelve participants were identified through snowball and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through both face-to-face and online interviews. The findings revealed that most participants were aged 16 to 17 years, and the majority of those who reported experiencing childhood trauma were female. Participants experienced various forms of childhood trauma, including family disruption, verbal abuse, sexual harassment, physical abuse, and bullying. The results showed that the effects of childhood trauma persisted in the participants’ daily lives and were associated with difficulties such as social withdrawal, low self-esteem, self-isolation, poor academic performance, behavioral issues, mental health concerns, and self-doubt. The coping mechanisms that emerged most prominently included self-isolation, self-reflection, and social interaction with others. The study concluded that peer and family relationships play a significant role in the development and impact of childhood trauma. It is recommended that individuals with a history of childhood trauma seek professional support from therapists or psychologists. Overall, this study helps adolescents with childhood trauma better understand the difficulties they may encounter and the coping mechanisms they can use to manage these challenges.