Emic Deconstruction of Pagdadalaga and Pagbibinata: A transdisciplinary study among adolescents in a selected urban and rural setting in the Philippines

Abstract

Adolescents had been the most sought reference population of many behavioral science researches worldwide. However, no studies were made that focused on the local concept of puberty and adolescence, particularly on the concept of pagdadalaga and pagbibinata in the Philippine setting. This study seeks to examine the general local concept and behavioral manifestations of pagdadalaga and pagbibinata of two selected communities in the Philippines. Individuals aged 9 to 20 years from Deparo, Caloocan City and Calbiga, Western Samar who were randomly selected were compared. Using cross- sectional survey and phenomenological designs, the results showed no significant differences between urban and rural respondents with regard to the general concept of pagdadalaga and pagbibinata. To them, pagdadalaga and pagbibinata refer to the period in the development of an individual where various physical, emotional, cognitive, sexual, and social changes occur. Age of onset was perceived to start at the age of 12 years and it terminates at the age of 18 years for females and 21 years for males. No significant differences were also found between urban and rural respondents with regard to the age of onset and termination, and the first manifestations. Most physical, emotional, cognitive, sexual and social changes were similar as experienced by majority of male and female respondents from both selected communities. Own experiences and school were the major sources of information regarding the respondents knowledge. Recommendations include large-scale emic deconstruction studies of adolescents employing cultural and ethnic groups; establishment of adolescent centers at the grassroots level; and revitalization of school curricula under the Department of Education which promote local cultural knowledge.