Reasons of Being Delinquent in the Community: A Phenomenological Study

The study aimed to explored the reasons of being delinquent individuals in the community, using an interview guide, the researchers gathered data from five delinquent individuals from barangay Masabud, Clarin Ozamis City. The study utilized the qualitative research method using Moustakas data analysis approach to obtain meaningful themes. The findings reveal four themes namely: (1)Influence of Peer Pressure and Friendships, (2) Financial Struggles and Family Responsibility, (3) Lack of Educational and Personal Motivation, (4) Stigmatization and Community Rejection, (5) Influence of Negative Peer Groups and Family Members (6) Desire for Community Acceptance and Personal Redemption and (7) Aspiration for Change and a Better Future. Peer pressure and friendships have a significant impact on behavior, especially among adolescents who are highly sensitive to group dynamics. The desire to fit in with peers can push individuals toward deviant activities, especially when surrounded by friends who normalize such behaviors. Peer pressure, financial difficulties, lack of motivation, and social rejection are some of the interrelated factors sometimes lead to delinquent behavior in individuals. Delinquency is also influenced by family obligations and financial difficulties, since people may turn to theft or other illegal methods to provide for their families or themselves. They become so desperate as a result of these pressures that they put their short-term survival ahead of the long-term effects. Another major factor contributing to the development of delinquent tendencies is a lack of motivation, both personal and educational.