FACTORS AFFECTING CHILD IN CONFLICTS WITH THE LAW IN BARANGAY 180 CALOOCAN CITY

Abstract

One of the most pressing social issues faced by communities today is the growing number of Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL). Despite the implementation of various interventions and policy reforms, juvenile delinquency remains widespread and continues to evolve with shifting societal conditions. This study seeks to examine the contributing factors influencing CICL cases in Barangay 180, Caloocan City, with an emphasis on psychological, sociological, and ecological aspects. This study employs a quantitative descriptive research design to evaluate the factors contributing to juvenile delinquency. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 50 respondents, including representatives from the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), Barangay Council, and CICL individuals. Data were collected through validated survey questionnaires that align with the study’s objectives. The study also explores challenges in addressing CICL cases and proposes targeted interventions to reduce their occurrence. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were male, aged 17 and below, with high school education, and identified as CICL. Across all respondent groups, there was strong agreement that psychological, sociological, and ecological factors significantly influence juvenile delinquency. The most pressing concern identified was the lack of parental supervision, which frequently led to repeated offenses. Proposed interventions include strengthening parental education on child supervision and discipline, conducting parenting workshops, implementing mentorship programs with trained social workers, and forming a Barangay Parent Support Group to offer peer-based guidance and support. The study recommends enhancing parental involvement and community engagement as primary strategies to address the CICL problem. Specific interventions include parenting workshops, structured mentorship programs, and peer support groups. Further initiatives such as community outreach, barangay forums on CICL rights, youth empowerment summits, and partnerships with local businesses for rehabilitation efforts are also proposed. These strategies, backed by a proposed implementation timeline and budget, aim to promote long-term rehabilitation, reduce recidivism, and cultivate a safer environment for the youth in Barangay 180. Continuous monitoring and further research are recommended to assess the effectiveness of these interventions over time.