EXAMINING THE WELL-BEING OF PUPILS IN POLYGAMOUS HOUSEHOLDS

RICHELIO J. ANDREE

doi:10.65010/seairj.v7i2.252

EXAMINING THE WELL-BEING OF PUPILS IN POLYGAMOUS HOUSEHOLDS

RICHELIO J. ANDREE

Abstract

Pupils living in polygamous households often encounter complex family dynamics that influence their emotional well-being, social relationships, and school engagement; however, limited local research has explored their lived experiences within the Philippine context. This study aimed to examine the well-being of pupils in polygamous households, with particular focus on their emotional experiences, family support systems, and school life and friendships. Guided by Attachment Theory and Family Systems Theory, the study employed a qualitative narrative research design involving seventeen pupils from Grades 4 to 6 in Kidapawan City who were purposively selected as participants. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and a researcher-made questionnaire, and were analyzed using thematic analysis supported by descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that pupils experienced emotional inconsistency arising from unequal parental attention, which led to feelings of jealousy, neglect, and insecurity. Many pupils relied on alternative support systems such as siblings, grandparents, peers, faith-based practices, journaling, and academic achievement to cope with emotional challenges. Additionally, social stigma, sibling rivalry, and restricted autonomy influenced their emotional well-being and social identity. Despite these difficulties, pupils demonstrated resilience, self-reliance, and adaptability, particularly in their academic motivation and peer relationships. The study concludes that although polygamous family structures pose emotional and social challenges for pupils, strong alternative support systems and positive coping strategies can foster resilience and overall well-being, underscoring the need for child-sensitive educational and social interventions tailored to pupils from polygamous households.

Keywords

emotional development, family dynamics, polygamous households, pupil well-being, qualitative study, Kidapawan City, Philippines

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.65010/seairj.v7i2.252

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