INFLUENCE OF 'UTANG NA LOOB' ON FILIPINO FAMILY DYNAMICS AMONG 3RD YEAR PSYCHOLOGY STUDENTS FROM BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

“Utang na loob” is a deeply embedded Filipino cultural value that plays a significant role in shaping family relationships. This study investigates its impact on family dynamics among third-year Psychology students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. It specifically examines how this cultural sense of obligation influences communication, decision-making, and the distribution of responsibilities within the family. A quantitative correlational research design was utilized, involving 121 third-year psychology student respondents. A structured survey using a 4-point Likert scale was administered to assess perceptions of family dynamics and the influence of utang na loob. The collected data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient to determine the strength and direction of the relationship between variables. Additional statistical tools such as percentage, rank, and weighted mean were also employed to support the analysis. The findings indicated that utang na loob had a weak positive correlation with family dynamics (r = 0.1582). However, this relationship was not statistically significant, as reflected by the test results (t = 1.1427, p = 0.0832). As a result, the null hypothesis was accepted, suggesting that utang na loob does not significantly influence the family dynamics of the respondents. The findings indicate that while utang na loob remains a respected cultural value, it does not significantly influence family relationships among the respondents. This suggests that contemporary Filipino families may place greater importance on other factors beyond traditional expressions of gratitude. Future studies are encouraged to investigate additional variables that may offer deeper insights into the evolving dynamics of Filipino families today.