Abstract:
In the Philippines where there is no death penalty, life imprisonment/reclusion
perpetua is the most severe punishment imposed for all heinous crimes which ranges
from twenty (minimum year) to forty years (maximum years). Inmates suffer and face
different challenges in their life in prison. This study focused on the motivation of those
inmates who have a verdict as a life termer.
The purpose of this study was to describe the socio-demographic profile of life-
sentenced female prisoners as well as to describe their typical day in prison. It also aimed
to identify their reasons for living despite being a life termer and to explain their coping
mechanisms in order to continually live their life in prison. Ten life-sentenced female
prisoners from Correctional Institution for Women participated in the study. The
researcher used qualitative method, particularly case study, in conducting the research.
In-depth interview guide were used in order to direct the researcher with the right flow of
interview. Content analysis was performed to analyze the data gathered.
The results revealed that, despite the difficulties and challenges that inmates face
in their life in prison, they are still motivated to live and they still find meaning in their
life. Factors like family especially children, institution and their belief in God contributed
to their reasons of living. Through mature coping and emotion-focused coping, they are
able to survive their everyday life in prison.
