Why Do Filipino Youth Swear? : its Socio-Psychological influence and its Implications in Education

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Due to the development in language brought by modernization, there is also the evolution of swear words which makes it almost a part of the Filipino culture and identity. Nowadays, a variety of swear words can be heard from different ages and social groups, even inside the school premises. Swearing is a form of conversation where swear words may bring pain as it degrades a person or; for friends, can be considered humor. It also roots from emotions such as fear, surprise, and joy. This study aims to determine the reasons and explore the implications in the swearing behavior of the Filipino youth with the hope that the behavior can be controlled in school where moral honing is a concern too.

METHODS

The respondents of the study are the 104 (52 boys;52 girls) Filipino adolescents from Grades Nine to Tenof Rosario National High School. The students were chosen according to their swearing behavior and whose age ranges from thirteen to eighteen years old.Data were gathered using a self-made survey which was administered online, with an attached Confidentiality Agreement and Statement of Objectives. The survey is comprised of eighteen questions that can be accomplished within five to ten minutes. Some of the questions are answerable by yes or no, while some questions require further elaboration.

RESULTS

Anger, an intense expression of disgust, is the highest reported variable that triggers the swearing behavior. It was found out that among the social groups where adolescents belong, it is the community that is the most influential. Meanwhile, 96.15% of the boys and 98.08% of the girls reported that their classmates swear at school. 57.69% of the boys and 51% of the girls reported that the employees of the school also swear at school. However, these adolescents remain positive and hopeful about the resolution that the school can do to control the manifestation of the swearing behavior.

DISCUSSIONS

Therefore, the policy "No Bad Words Campaign" is conceptualized, in its hope for a school that values the strengthening of respect, self-control, and sensitivity in conversations. Proper implementation of this program may bear students who are not only good at academics but who are, at the same, disciplined and polite.