LIVED EXPERIENCES OF GRADE 11 SELECTED SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AT GENERAL DE JESUS COLLEGE WHO LIVED WITH BROKEN FAMILY

Abstract

A broken family is a situation experienced by some students, and it significantly affects their daily lives. Disruptions within the family structure can influence children’s emotional development and hinder their ability to form healthy relationships with others. This study was conducted to determine the lived experiences of selected Grade 11 senior high school students at General de Jesus College who live in broken families. This study employed a phenomenological research design to explore the experiences of the selected students. The research was conducted during the School Year 2023–2024 at General de Jesus College in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija. A total of ten (10) participants took part in the study. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews supported by audio recordings. The gathered data were analyzed through thematic analysis. The results showed that the participants experienced various challenges associated with living in a broken family. These challenges included lack of focus on academic performance and insufficient parental care. The findings further revealed that most students were affected both positively and negatively. On the positive side, some participants expressed motivation to become good parents in the future. On the negative side, they experienced difficulties in maintaining academic focus. Despite these challenges, participants were able to cope through support from friends and through acceptance of their family situation. Overall, the challenges faced by students from broken families can shape their resilience and ability to overcome obstacles. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the experiences of students from broken families and highlight the need for appropriate support and intervention within educational settings.