Motivating Factors and Effects of School Truancy: The Case of Criminology Students

Abstract

Introduction

The primary objective of this study was to comprehensively examine the underlying drivers and consequences associated with school truancy within the context of Criminology students at CICOSAT Colleges.  The researchers adopted a qualitative approach within an explanatory research framework to achieve this goal.  By employing the qualitative research design, precisely the case study method, the study sought to delve deeply into the intricate details of school truancy cases among Criminology students, aiming to capture genuine insights from the subjects/respondents.

Method

Qualitative research was deemed appropriate due to its ability to capture authentic personal accounts and experiences.  This method allowed the researchers to explore the subjective aspects of the participants' journey through chronic truancy and its resultant impacts, such as academic setbacks and transfers within CICOSAT Colleges.  The case study method was selected as it provided an ideal framework to examine those students who exhibited persistent patterns of truancy and had encountered substantial consequences in their academic pursuits.

Findings

Based on the comprehensive analysis derived from this research endeavor, several significant findings were drawn regarding the profile of the Criminology students grappling with school truancy.  The participant pool comprised eight Criminology students, equally divided between genders, with four males and four females.  Their age distribution was diverse, with two participants aged 20 or below, while the remaining six were 23 or older.  Regarding marital status, seven were single, while one was married.  Geographically, the participants hailed from various districts within La Union, including Central, North, and South districts and Ilocos Sur. Accommodation arrangements varied, with one participant living in a boarding arrangement, while the others were non-boarding.  Family structures also exhibited diversity, with various family backgrounds including single-parent households, separated parents, dysfunctional families, and legally married parents.  Furthermore, the participants' living situations were equally varied, with some residing with parents, one having an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) parent, and one living independently.  In terms of employment, three participants juggled work commitments alongside their studies, while the rest were full-time students.

The motivating factors that emerged as significant contributors to the prevalence of school truancy among Criminology students encompassed a variety of influences.  Peer influence played a substantial role, exerting pressure on some students to engage in truancy.  Financial difficulties were another prominent factor, compelling sure participants to miss classes to address their economic challenges.  Factors such as laziness and the perceived lack of prioritization of their Criminology course emerged as motivations for skipping school.  Family problems also played a role in contributing to truancy cases among the Criminology students under examination.

Conclusion

In essence, this study comprehensively explored the complex dynamics surrounding school truancy within Criminology education at CICOSAT Colleges.  Using the qualitative methodology and the case study approach, a nuanced understanding of the motivating factors and repercussions of truancy among these students was achieved.  The diverse profiles and experiences of the participants underscored the multifaceted nature of this issue, shedding light on the interconnected roles of peers, finances, personal priorities, and family circumstances.