A grounded theory on factors associated with jaywalking violations in Metro Manila

Abstract

This study explored the various factors associated with jaywalking violations in Metro Manila. The study specifically aimed to identify the pedestrians’ concept of jaywalking, to describe the perceptions of pedestrians about the penalty, to determine the reasons for the non-compliance to the anti-jaywalking policy, and to provide suggestions of for a better system of anti-jaywalking implementation. Through a grounded theory design, the researcher identified the main issues behind the pedestrian violation. Twenty (20) pedestrians apprehended for jaywalking, aged 19-48, participated in an in-depth interview. Three (3) anti-jaywalking enforcers from MMDA were interviewed as well. Analysis of data was conducted through categorizing information into codes (open, axial, selective) and connecting the themes discovered that lead to a grounded theory. The results indicate that the factors affect jaywalking violations in Metro Manila are as follows: awareness of pedestrians, inconvenient pedestrian structures, absence of enforcers, non-compliance of public transportation, and influence of other pedestrians. The grounded theory holds that factors stated above led to the habitual jaywalking of pedestrians. Jaywalking behaviors stems from multiple and interconnected factors, including the lack of understanding to the full scope of jaywalking as well as their disregard for the penalty due to the lack of enforcement. The research also provides insights suggestions on addressing the problem of jaywalking.