Behavioral Impairment, Social Interactions and Emotional Well-Being among Overstaying Minor Residents in a Municipal Residential Facility: A Case Study

Abstract

This study examined the behavioral impairments, social interactions, and emotional well-being of overstaying minor residents at the Roxas Lingap Center for Children in Roxas, Isabela, with particular attention to the effects of prolonged institutional care and factors affecting adjustment and reintegration. The study was anchored in Erikson’s Psychosocial Development Theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Social Learning Theory, and Environmental Press Theory. A qualitative phenomenological design was employed involving five female survivors of sexual abuse aged 11 to 17 years who had remained in residential care for two to seven years. Data were gathered through direct and non-participant observations, focus group discussions, psychological reports and assessments, in-depth interviews, anecdotal reports, and institutional documents. Inductive thematic analysis, triangulation, and member checking were used to establish recurring patterns and strengthen the credibility of the findings. Results revealed behavioral manifestations involving aggression and disruptive behavior, attention-seeking and rule violations, emotional dysregulation, and withdrawal. Although participants gradually developed stronger social participation, interpersonal relationships, adaptive coping, and supportive surrogate relationships with caregivers and peers, they continued to experience emotional distress, unresolved trauma, disrupted attachment, longing for family, and vulnerability associated with prolonged separation and restricted autonomy. The findings demonstrate that successful adaptation to residential care does not necessarily indicate complete emotional recovery. The study concludes that residential care provides essential protection, stability, education, and psychosocial support but cannot independently address the long-term effects of trauma and family separation. It recommends strengthened trauma-informed and child-centered interventions, mental health support, family-centered services, reintegration planning, and coordinated stakeholder participation. The study aligns with SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals. Its sustainability contribution lies in strengthening public health, community support, institutional care, social welfare practice, and policy systems for vulnerable children.