Beyond Compassion: Lived Experiences of Children in Conflict With the Law in a Residential Care Facility

Abstract

Law (CICL) who completed the rehabilitation program at Bahay Pag-asa Davao del Norte. It aimed to uncover their post-rehabilitation experiences, examine coping strategies used in navigating reintegration challenges, and identify insights gained from their personal journeys. Guided by Social Control Theory, Differential Association Theory, and Labeling Theory, the study employed in-depth, semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis. Participants were aged 18 to 30, resided in Davao del Norte, and were observed one to fifteen years after their release from the facility. Six themes emerged regarding post-rehabilitation experiences: The Paradox of Freedom, Slow-Paced Mindset, Internal Transformation and Emotional Regulation, Reintegration and Family Dynamics, Reclaiming Identity and Social Reputation, and Resilience through Labor and Education. Three themes characterized coping strategies: Goal-Directed Motivation and Purposeful Engagement, Reliance on Faith and Spiritual Grounding, and Multi-Layered Support Systems. Five themes reflected participants’ insights: Architectural View of Mistakes, Strategic Endurance and Mental Toughness, Purpose Beyond the Self, Proactive Influence Management, and Spiritual Optimism and Divine Timing. The findings highlight important implications for social work practice, particularly in strengthening the rehabilitation and reintegration of CICL. Participants’ experiences demonstrate that rehabilitation extends beyond residential care and involves continuing changes in identity, relationships, emotional regulation, social participation, education, employment, and decision-making. The study concludes that rehabilitation is a transformative and ongoing process requiring sustained support, guidance, and opportunities for meaningful participation in family and community life. Strengthening long-term aftercare and outcome monitoring may help rehabilitated CICL sustain positive changes and successfully navigate reintegration challenges.