Pakikipagpalagayang- loob: Exploring Mutual Trust between Programme Managers and Children in a Philippine Residential Care Facility

Abstract

This study examines the trust relationship between the programme managers and residents in a house for girls in need of protection in the Philippines which advocates child participation. The research employs interviews with the programme managers and residents (10) using Sikolohiyang Pilipino (Filipino psychology) methods of pagtatanong-tanong (asking questions) and pakikipagkuwentuhan (exchanging stories). The first research question explores how the management demonstrates trust towards the children, revealing cognitive and affective trust, along with the manifestation of palagay ang loob, ease within the inner selves of both parties. The second question unveils reciprocal trust, where the initial trust of the managers is mirrored by the children in their benevolence, ability, and integrity. Notably, the study introduces the concept of pakikipagpalagayang-loob, highlighting mutual trust rooted in the acceptance and understanding of holistic selves. The study contributes to local literature by addressing a research gap in understanding residential care within the Philippine context. Moreover, it enhances the body of knowledge on Filipino Psychology by analyzing trust through the lenses of loob and kapwa in Sikolohiyang Pilipino.