CHAPTER I The Problem Introduction In human perspective, a family is a group of people affiliated by consanguinity, affinity, or co-residence. In most societies it is the principal institution for the socialization of children. We certainly take a place in the family. When we are born, we may take the place of the eldest, the middle, the youngest or the only child. This place or what we call the birth order, establishes a specific role to be portrayed within the family. Thus, it contributes to the development of certain attitudes and specific patterns of behavior. The eldest child is said to be the leader, often he has strong decisive qualities that allow him to make firm decisions. This may be due to the expectations and special attention given by his parents. The youngest is often lax and confident, probably the loudest and sometimes spoiled because the parents have used up all their energies 1
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CHAPTER I
The Problem
Introduction
In human perspective, a family is a group of people affiliated by consanguinity,
affinity, or co-residence. In most societies it is the principal institution for the
socialization of children.
We certainly take a place in the family. When we are born, we may take the place
of the eldest, the middle, the youngest or the only child. This place or what we call the
birth order, establishes a specific role to be portrayed within the family. Thus, it
contributes to the development of certain attitudes and specific patterns of behavior.
The eldest child is said to be the leader, often he has strong decisive qualities that
allow him to make firm decisions. This may be due to the expectations and special
attention given by his parents. The youngest is often lax and confident, probably the
loudest and sometimes spoiled because the parents have used up all their energies
disciplining the others. In short, he/she is given the attention she needed. The middle
child, unlike the others is then, not given much attention. The oldest is important and
attended to, simply because he’s the oldest, as for the youngest, he/she’s special because
he’s the baby. Being in the middle, then means, living in a sort of anonymous haziness.
The birth order thus make a difference, and those who are in the middle, run the risk of
developing a condition known as middle child syndrome.
Often overlooked and unnoticed, middle children, according to psychologist
Kevin Leman in “The Birth Order Book,” struggle to find their place in the world.
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According to Jamie Malone, an eHow Contributor, middle children tend to suffer
from low self – esteem. They believe that they are not special or unique in anyway. They
also grow resentful of the lack of personalized attention and often vocalize these feelings.
The resentful feelings often lead to personality and behavioral problems. Middle children
tend to fight for attention and crave the spotlight within the family. The behavior of
middle children tends to go between extremes. They may be rebellious at some times and
extreme people-pleasers at others.
However, the book, “The Secret Power of Middle Children" by Catherine Salmon
and Katrin Schumann, presented a different description and a new character of a middle
child;
“…In reality, contrary to expectations, middleborns are agents of change in business, politics, and
science — more so than firstborns or lastborns. Middles are self-aware team players with
remarkable diplomatic skills. Because they’re both outgoing and flexible, they tend to deal well
with others—in the workplace and at home. They’re more motivated by fairness than money when
making life choices, and have a deep sense of family, friends, and loyalty. History shows them to
be risk takers and trailblazers, yet they do suffer needlessly from poor self-esteem.”
The growing interest with Middle Child Syndrome and the excerpt above has
compelled the researchers to conduct this study and determine the psychosocial concerns
of middle children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, particularly their psychological (belongingness,
self – concept, sense of direction and trust issues), social and career concerns and their
relationship with their personal (age, sex, number of sibling/s, order of birth, occupation,
school performances and activity inclination) and parental profile (age, occupation, and
monthly family income). The results of the study will give better understanding of the
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situation of a middle child, and also for parents to take an appropriate action. This will
also give program planners, students or future researchers, ideas from which they could
make future intervention or action eventually helping to solve the problem brought about
by the psychosocial problems encountered by middle children.
Statement of the Problem
This study aimed to determine psychosocial factors affecting middle children and
the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in Bantay, Ilocos Sur. Specifically, it
sought to answer the following questions:
1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:
a. age,
b. sex,
c. number of sibling/s,
d. order of birth,
e. occupation,
f. school performances, and
g. activity inclination?
2. What is the profile of their parents in terms of:
a. age,
b. occupation, and
c. monthly family income?
3. What is the level of psychosocial concern of the respondents?
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a. psychological,
b. social,
c. and career?
4. Is there a relationship between the level of psychosocial concerns of middle
children and the personal and parental profile of respondents?
Scope and Delimitation
This study delimited on the perceive responses on the psychosocial concern of
middle children among residence of the municipality of Bantay, Ilocos Sur which was
suggested by the panel members. It was defined on the following dependent and
independent variables.
The independent variable was the socio-demographic profile which includes age,
sex, number of siblings, birth order, occupation, monthly family income, school
performances, and inclination of activities where as the dependent variables consisted of
the level of psychosocial factors such as self-esteem and attitude. The study utilized the
descriptive correlation method of research.
The respondents were determined by calculating the sample size of the residents
of Bantay, Ilocos Sur. One of the criteria for this study was according to the number of
siblings in the family. To determine if the child is middle, it followed the criteria whether
the number of siblings is odd or even. If it is odd, then the middle child is the center or in
the mid position based on the number of the children. When it is even, the two (2) middle
children are the respondents of the study.
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Theoretical Framework
To provide a wider understanding of the nature of study, a review of related
literature was made to enrich the researcher’s knowledge in the characteristics or
personalities of middle children.
Alfred Adler (1870-1937), an Austrian psychiatrist, and a contemporary
of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, was one of the first theorists to suggest that birth order
influences personality. He argued that birth order can leave an indelible impression on an
individual's style of life, which is one's habitual way of dealing with the tasks of
friendship, love, and work. Claims about birth order effects on personality have received
only mixed support in scientific research. Such research is a challenge because of the
difficulty of controlling all the variables that are statistically related to birth order. Family
size, and a number of social and demographic variables are associated with birth order
serve as potential confound.
According to Adler, firstborns are "dethroned" when a second child comes along,
and this may have a lasting influence on them. Younger and only children may be
pampered and spoiled, which can also affect their later personalities. Given the attention
that goes to both of those children, those who fall in the middle may exhibit certain signs
and behaviors that others do not. The birth order does make a difference, and those who
are in the middle run the risk of developing a condition known as middle child syndrome.
Second born children are competitors, as stated by essortment.com. They may feel
inadequate in comparison to the older sibling, regardless of whether this feeling is
perpetuated by the parents. Phrases like "why can't you be more like your brother" or
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"your sister wouldn't do that" are often associated with the fate of the middle child.
Adding fuel to the fire, the older child is perceived as doted upon and privileged. These
circumstances can cause the middle child to harbor intense resentment for the first born
child. This, combined with the need to compete may lead to rebellion and isolation. That
being said, second born children are often the most troublesome of the three. They exhibit
this behavior in an attempt to receive the attention that is constantly given to the older
child. They also tend to act out when a third child is born because they feel even further
neglected. The parents are juggling a newborn, to whom they must constantly attend, and
an older child who needs endless encouragement because they are trying things for the
first time. This can lead to a flexible and carefree or stubborn, "fight or flight" attitude on
the part of the middle child.
There are two main causes of having middle child personality. – Identity crisis
and lack of emotional support. Identity crisis is very common to all; it is something that
we continue to struggle with. In fact, everyone wishes to be different so nothing can
actually be done with it. The second is lack of emotional support. Because the eldest and
youngest are the common favorites, the middle child is not given any support or attention.
This unloved feeling makes them less confident and envious of others.
In the article of Ken Black, he stated that the effects of middle child syndrome are
numerous. The child may feel as if he or she does not belong, given all the attention
given to the oldest and youngest. The middle child may also feel as if he or she is loved
less, have low self – esteem and suffer from a lack of a sense of direction. However, these
symptoms are not limited only to childhood. They can linger in a person throughout their
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entire adult lives as well, making middle child syndrome symptoms possibly become
more serious. (wisegeek.com)
Psychological concerns.
Belongingness. The middle child may not feel a sense of belonging to the family in the
same way as other children. He/she struggles to be close to the family because of feeling
ignored and ‘unwanted’. Sometimes, the middle child also feels sandwiched between the
other siblings. It is important as a parent, to not let such feelings overcome their middle
child. (W3Courses.com)
According to essortment.com, the middle child often has the sense of not
belonging. They fight to receive attention from parents and others because they feel many
times they are being ignored or dubbed off as being the same as another sibling. Being in
the middle a child can feel insecure. The middle child often lacks drive and looks for
direction from the first born child. Sometimes a middle child feels out of place because
they are not over achievers and like to go with the flow of things.
Self – concept. Since a middle child feels that he/she is basically unwanted, he/she may
have a very low self-esteem. There is nothing worse than to feel not needed and it can
badly affect even an adult. For a child, it has a serious bearing on his/her overall
development. Such a child will continue to suffer from a lack of self-belief on growing
up. A middle child’s confidence may be shaky due to the feeling of being overlooked
upon, by his/her parents. (W3Courses.com)
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In their book "Birth Order and You," Donald W. Richardson and Lois A.
Richardson claim that middle children are then confused about their identity, caught
between trying to be grown-up like the eldest and helpless like the youngest.
Sense of direction. The children suffering from middle child syndrome also lack a sense
of direction. There is certain disillusionment among them and they struggle to find the
real direction of their life. They are not comfortable confiding in their parents, not even in
their brothers or sisters. This is not to say that all middle children turn out to be failures in
their life. Only those suffering from this syndrome have a tendency to lack any direction
in life. (W3Courses.com)
For any middle child, the biggest point of comparison is the sibling who falls just
before them in the birth order. Often, rather than competing head-on with that older
sibling, the middle child chooses to go in a different direction. If the older sibling is a
great student, for example, the middle child may become a musician or an athlete.
(There's some research suggesting that middle children are more likely to engage in
dangerous sports, perhaps because they are used to taking risks.) By choosing a niche that
isn't already occupied, a middle child increases his chances of standing out and being
noticed, and decreases the risk of negative comparisons. (drspock.com)
Trust issues. A middle child, on feeling ignored and un-loved, may have trust issues. As a
child, we first lean to trust and completely rely on our parents, but a middle child fails to
do that and consequentially, faces such issues. Such a child has difficulty in opening up
and confiding in anyone. However, not every child suffering from middle child syndrome
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has a distrusting attitude. Sometimes, such a child is pining to trust and lean on someone.
(W3Courses.com)
Social concerns. It is, usually, seen that a child suffering from middle child syndrome is
not too extrovert or social. There is a tendency among such children to become loners in
life. They feel like an outsider in the family and therefore, become a recluse in other areas
of life as well. Such a child believes in spending time with him/herself rather than others,
because he/she feels uncared for. And so, he/she tries to create a world of his/her own and
lean on his/her own self for support. (W3Courses.com)
On a more positive note, middle children are often artistic, witty and incredibly
self-sufficient. They are afforded the luxury of being able to depose the oldest, at the
same time taking control of the youngest; this can help boost an otherwise deflated self-
esteem. The inherent flexibility associated with their place in the birth order may help
middle children easily conquer a variety of social situations and stressors. They also tend
to develop many loyal, long-lasting relationships outside the family, perhaps as an effort
to feel included. Parents should keep in mind that these relationships can turn sour.
Sometimes a middle child will seek rebellious social groups as a means to stand out and
be noticed" an attempt to compensate for the lack of parental attention.
Middle children, who are usually smaller than their older siblings while they're
growing up, often learn non-aggressive strategies to get what they want, such as
negotiation, cooperation, or seeking parental intervention. As the underdogs themselves
in many sibling conflicts, middle children often develop a fine sense of empathy with the
downtrodden, as do many youngest children. Where first and last children may tend to be
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self-centered, middle children often take a genuine interest in getting to know other
people. Being in the middle, they may find it easier to look at interpersonal situations
from various points of view. (drspock.com)
Career concerns. Not liking to take the limelight for anything, they are not over achievers
and just simply work enough work to get by, and typically that goes with school as well
as a career (essortment.com). However according to W3Courses.com, some middle
children are overachiever in everything, as they crave attention. They push themselves
extremely hard to excel in everything so that they would get noticed.
As stated by essortment.com, they are however very artistic and creative. If forced
to use abilities they will work well, but do not work well under pressure. They often start
several projects but rarely keep focused long enough to finish a project. The best career
move for a middle child would be along the lines of using their creative. Going into a
writing or journalism career, and into a career that they could freely express themselves
would be good. Anything that would have hours that are flexible, and projects that
frequently changed would be good for a middle born child.
As presented by an article of Kate Cotton at ehow.com, in 2009, the Baby website
conducted a poll of 1,000 parents and 1,000 middle children. More than half of the
middle children surveyed said they received less attention than their siblings and so
learned to do more things for themselves. The study found that being more independent
at an earlier age meant that middle children actually fared better in life. The middle
children surveyed were more content in their relationships and careers, and 60 percent of
those surveyed said that, out of all their siblings, they were the happiest with their lives.
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On the positive side, the book “The Secret Power of Middle Children"
by Catherine Salmon and Katrin Schumann, presented a different description and a new
character of a middle child; “…In reality, contrary to expectations, middleborns are
agents of change in business, politics, and science — more so than firstborns or lastborns.
Middles are self-aware team players with remarkable diplomatic skills. Because they’re
both outgoing and flexible, they tend to deal well with others—in the workplace and at
home. They’re more motivated by fairness than money when making life choices, and
have a deep sense of family, friends, and loyalty. History shows them to be risk takers
and trailblazers, yet they do suffer needlessly from poor self-esteem.”
Unfortunately, the overall picture in the review is mostly negative. It depicts that
middle children often does not belong, especially within their family; they often have
inadequate feelings and they think of themselves as unloved; they lack sense of direction
and are often independent; they are loners and have trust issues; they make an effort to be
included in small acquaintances with this sense of empathy with the downtrodden; and
lastly, though some studies say that they often just work to get by, studies prove that
middle children actually fare better in career and eventually, with their lives.
In their book Sibling Relationships: Their Nature and Significance across the
Lifespan, Michael E. Lamb and Brian Sutton-Smith make the point that sibling
relationships often last an entire lifetime. They point out that the lifespan view proposes
that development is continuous, with individuals continually adjusting to the competing
demands of socialization agents and biological tendencies. Thus, even those concerned
only with interactions among young siblings implicitly or explicitly acknowledge that all
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Figure 1
The Research Paradigm: The correlation between the psychosocial factors and the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in Bantay, Ilocos Sur
relationships change over time and that any effects of birth order may be eliminated,
reinforced, or altered by later experiences.
Conceptual Framework
The conceptual framework was based on the determination of the relationship
between the level of the psychosocial factors affecting and the socio-demographic profile
of middle children among Bantay, Ilocos Sur residents. The researchers were guided by
the paradigm below.
INDEPENDENT VARIABLE DEPENDENT VARIABLE
Figure 1 illustrates the paradigm showing the relationship between the two
variables. The socio-demographic factors such as age, sex, no. of siblings, birth order,
occupation, monthly family income, school performances and inclination to activities
were the independent variable and the level of psychosocial factors affecting middle
children which is defined by self-esteem and attitude, as the dependent variable.
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A. Socio-demographic profile:a. Ageb. Sexc. Number of siblingsd. Birth ordere. Occupationf. Monthly Family incomeg. School performancesh. Inclination to Activities
B. Parental Profile:a. Ageb. Occupationc. Monthly Income
Psychosocial concern
a. Psychological concernb. Social concernc. Career concern
Operational Definition of Terms
The following terms used in the study provided concrete understanding which are
operationally defined such as:
A term used in this study was operationally defined for a clearer understanding of
this study where the middle child is the second born child in a family of more than two
children and the Middle Child Syndrome is a syndrome where there is a feeling of
insecurity in the middle child, because he/she feels ignored between the eldest and
youngest sibling.
Psychosocial concerns refer to one's psychological development in and
interaction within a social environment.
Psychological concerns refer to the need of middle children psychologically.
Social concerns refer to the regard of middle children with the society.
Career concerns refer to the view of middle children to their career or job.
Socio-demographic profile refers to the background of the middle children
which may lead the researchers to a concrete conclusion.
Age refers to the length of existence of the respondents, by number of years.
Sex refers to the gender of the respondents either male or female.
Number of Sibling/s refers to the total number of children in the family.
Order of Birth defined as a person's rank by age among his or her siblings
Data Gathering Instrument. The survey questionnaire was validated by
corresponding officials of the respective barangays. It is divided into three (3) parts. The
first part was the socio-demographic profile of the respondents. The second part focused
on psychosocial concerns.
The mean descriptions of the range was based on the following norm of
interpretation for both the effectiveness and utilization levels which is presented below
Item Descriptive Rating Mean Range Overall Descriptive Rating5 = strongly agree 4.20-5.00 Very high4 = agree 3.40-4.19 High3 = Uncertain 2.60-3.39 Moderate2 = disagree 1.80-2.59 Slight1 = strongly disagree 1.00-1.79 Not or never perceived at all
Data Gathering Procedures. The study was conducted based on the actual
survey of population in the municipality of Bantay, Ilocos Sur. Then, a letter of request
and approval from the university president as well as the dean of the college of nursing
were solicited in order to pursue the research. Upon approval, a request letter was sent to
the mayor for his approval in conducting the study that was endorsed to the different
officials of the barangays.
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Barangay (not included in the statement )
n %
Barangay IV 14 14.00Barangay VI 11 11.00Barangay I 11 11.00Barangay Sagpat 14 14.00Barangay Tay - ac 50 50.00
TOTAL 100 100.00
A one-on-one interview was conducted among selected households and survey
questionnaires were distributed for their respective responses. Then, tallying of gathered
data was performed which was presented for analysis and implications.
Statistical Treatment of Data. The statistical tools employed in the study are as
follows: [1] frequency and percentage distribution for the socio-demographic profile, [2]
weighted mean for the psychosocial factors such as the levels of self-esteem and attitude,
and; [3] bivariate correlation analysis for the significant relationship between variables.
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CHAPTER II
Presentation, Analysis and Interpretation
This chapter presents, analyzes and interprets the data gathered from the
respondents using the questionnaire and interview as the main instrument.
The data gathered are meant to provide evidence of the study to determine the
psychosocial concerns of middle children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:
a. age,
b. sex,
c. number of sibling/s,
d. order of birth,
e. occupation,
f. school performances, and
g. activity inclination?
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Table 2The Distribution of the Socio-Demographic Profile of the Respondents in Bantay
Table 3 shows the distribution of the parental profile in terms of age, occupation
and monthly income of the respondents in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
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Age. A greater percentage, 37% of the respondents’ father belongs to the 44 – 49 years of
age. There are 30% of them who are 38 – 40 years old and 20% are between ages 50 –
55 years old. Nine percent (9%) of the fathers are 56 – 61 and the lowest of whom
belongs to the age bracket of 32 – 37 years old with 4%.
Most of the mother’s respondents belong to the 38 – 43 years old with a percentage of 42.
Thirty percent (30%) are between ages 44 – 49. There are 16% who are aging 50 – 55
years old. Furthermore, there are 9% who are under 32 – 37 years of age and 3% of them
are 56 – 61 years old.
Occupation. Out of 100 fathers, 45 (45%) are skilled workers, and 26 (26%) are
unemployed. Both private employees and those who have their own business gained 10
(10%) respondents each. Only 9 (9%) are government employees while none of the
respondents have pension or retired from their work.
Table 3 shows that half of the respondents’ mothers (50%) are unemployed. Twenty three
(23%) of them are skilled workers; and fourteen (14%) mothers are self – employed. Ten
mothers (10%) are private employees while three (3%) are government employees. None
of them are pensioned.
Income. Forty (40%) of the respondents has an income of less than Php5, 000; thirty two
(32%) has an income of Php5, 001 – Php10, 000; fifteen (15%) are generating an income
ranging from Php10, 001 – Php15, 000; six (6%) earns an amount ofPhp15, 001 – Php20,
000; another 6 (6%) produces an amount ofPhp25,001 and above, and lastly, one (1%)
earns an income of Php20, 001 – Php25, 000.
3. What is the level of psychosocial concern of the respondents?
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Table 4The Mean Distribution on Psychosocial Concerns of the Respondents
Psychological Concern Statement Mean InterpretationBelongingness
1. When I’m close to someone, it gives me a sense of comfort about life in general 3.75 Often
2. I have trouble getting others to be as close as I want them to be 2.52 Rarely
3. I am very comfortable being close to others 4.18 Often4. I worry about others abandoning me 2.91 Sometimes5. Being close to someone gives me a source of strength for
other activities 4.04 Often6. I worry that my family doesn’t love me 2.63 Sometimes7. I always feel that I belong in the family 4.61 Always8. I feel ignored and unwanted 1.98 Never
Belongingness Mean 3.33 ModerateSelf-Concept
1. I feel that I am a person of worth 3.88 Often2. I am inclined to feel that I am a failure 2.42 Rarely3. I am able to do things as well as most other people 3.76 Often
4. I feel I do have much to be proud of 3.75 Often
5. I am satisfied with myself 4.23 Always6. I have more respect for myself 4.46 Always7. I have confidence in my general ability to do things and to
cope with situations. 3.90 Often8. I accept myself as I am and am happy with myself 4.51 Always9. I feel valued and needed 3.78 Often10. I can accept criticisms without feeling putdown 3.23 Sometimes11. I admit my mistakes openly 3.76 Often12. I never hide my true feelings 3.30 Sometimes
13. I always speak up for myself and put my views across 3.16 Sometimes
14. I don’t worry what others think of the views 3.15 Sometimes
15. I don’t need others approval to feel good 3.14 SometimesSelf-Concept Mean 3.63 High
Sense of Direction1. I can achieve what I want if I work hard for it. 4.18 Often2. In my personal relationships, the other person has more
control than I do. 2.96 Sometimes3. Once I make plans, I am almost certain to make them
work. 3.52 Often4. I’m good at guiding the course of a conversation with
several others. 3.35 Sometimes5. I can learn almost anything if I set my mind to it. 4.04 Often6. My major accomplishments are entirely due to my hard
work and ability. 3.98 Often7. I usually set goals to make things organized. 3.81 Often8. I’m comfortable in confiding to my parents, brothers and
sisters. 4.01 Often9. Having a single success makes me think of other successes. 3.56 Often10. I know how to take responsibility for my action 4.02 Often11. I know how to make decision and act on them 3.95 Often12. I know how to look at my decisions and change the poor
ones 3.41 OftenSense of Direction Mean 3.73 High
Trust Issues1. I trust myself more than any other person. 4.26 Always2. I am confident to share my undisclosed issues and
concerns. 3.39 Sometimes3. I am certain that the people whom I’ve entrusted my 3.38 Sometimes
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secrets will not leak them out.4. I am certain that people also trust me. 3.72 Often5. I keep entrusted secrets. 3.69 Often6. I can freely share my secrets and accept opinions. 3.62 Often
Trust Issues Mean 3.68 HighOverall Psychological Concern Mean 3.59 High
Social ConcernsSocial Concerns
1. I feel like I am welcome in the family. 4.75 Always2. I prefer working by myself. 3.66 Often3. I often experience being ignored and uncared for 2.73 Sometimes4. I feel happy with my friends. 4.56 Always5. I get along well with others. 3.72 Often6. I prefer to spend time alone rather than with others 3.01 Sometimes7. I love joining parties or outing with friends and family. 3.70 Often8. I avoid being taken advantage of 3.42 Often9. I make friends easily 3.85 Often10. I don’t need others to tell me I have done a good job 3.08 Sometimes11. I enjoy socializing 3.68 Often12. I know how to start and maintain friendship 4.27 Always13. I make myself attractive to others 3.58 Often
Social Concerns Mean 3.66 HighCareer Concerns
1. I am confident that I can handle responsibilities without constant assistance 3.67 Often
2. Once I make plans, I am almost certain to make them work 3.77 Often3. I am satisfied with my achievements 3.77 Often4. I am a person who can take risks 3.38 Sometimes5. I know that I can handle my work better if I’m alone 3.43 Often6. I prefer a more challenging job 3.44 Often7. I can identify personal skills, interests and abilities and
relate them to career choice 3.56 Often8. I can identify career areas that fit my skills, abilities, and
interests 3.51 Often9. I understand the relationship between educational
achievement and career success 3.66 Often10. I apply decision – making skills to career planning, course
selection and career transition 3.58 Often11. I use employability and job readiness skills in internship,
and other work experience 3.24 Sometimes12. I can explain how work can help to achieve personal
success and satisfaction 3.73 Often13. I learn how to work cooperatively with others as a team
member 4.04 Often14. I demonstrate knowledge of the career – planning process 3.37 Sometimes15. I develop a positive attitude toward work and learning 3.96 Often16. I understand the importance of responsibility,
dependability, punctuality, intensity, and effort in the workplace 4.06 Often
Career Concerns Mean 3.64 HighGRAND MEAN OF PSYCHOSOCIAL CONCERNS 3.61 High
StatisticalLimit
Quantitative Scaleand Item Description
DescriptiveEquivalent
4.20-5.00 5=Always Very High3.40-4.19 4=Often High2.60-3.39 3=Sometimes Moderate1.80-2.59 2=Rarely Low1.00-1.79 1=Never Very Low
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As gleaned from Table 4, the overall level of psychological concern of middle children
in terms of belongingness is “moderate”, as indicated by the mean rating of 3.33. The result
implies that middle children are just moderately concerned with their belonging or inclusion to
the family and other people. This may be due to their developing independence that makes them
be used to doing things on their own but still considers companionship with peers.
The respondents “always” feel that they belong in the family (x = 4.61). In addition, the
respondents are “often” comfortable being close to others (x = 4.18), being close to someone
gives them a source of strength for other activities (x = 4.04), and when they are close to
someone, it gives them a sense of comfort about life in general (x = 3.75).
Furthermore, they “sometimes” worry about others abandoning them (x = 2.91), and
worry that their family doesn’t love them (x = 2.63). Moreover, they “rarely” have trouble
getting others to be as close as they want them to be (x = 2.52) and “rarely” feel ignored and
unwanted (x = 1.98).
Based on Table 5, the overall psychological concern of middle children under
self-concept is “high” as indicated by the mean rating of 3.63. The table implies that the
middle children have a high consideration on their self – concept. As in almost all people,
their self – concept are affected by external and internal factors, thus, the way they
perceive their selves matters a lot.
The respondents “always” accept themselves and are happy (xT =4.51); they always
have more respect on themselves (xT =4.46), and are satisfied with their being (xT =4.23).
Furthermore, they are “often” having confidence in their general ability to do
things and cope with situations (xT =3.90), a person of worth (xT =3.88), feel valued and
28
needed (xT =3.78), admit their mistakes openly and are able to do things as well as other
people (xT =3.76) and having much to be proud of (xT =3.75).
Moreover, they “sometimes”, never hide their true feeling (xT =3.30), can accept
criticisms without feeling putdown (xT =3.23), always speak up for their self and put their
views across (xU =3.16), they don’t worry what others think of the views (xT =3.15), and
don’t need others approval to feel good (xT =3.14).
The results show that the respondents “rarely” feel that they are failure (xT =2.42).
As shown in Table 6, the respondents from the different barangays of Bantay have
a “high” psychological concern in terms of sense of direction as supported by the mean
rating of 3.73. This implies that the general psychological concern of middle children in
terms of their sense of direction is at a high level and this may be attributed to their desire
to be successful someday and prove that the middle child syndrome would not be the
cause for their failure but the cause for their success.
The respondents “often” achieve what they want if they work hard (x=4.18) and
are “often” comfortable in confiding to their parents, brothers and sisters (x=4.01). In
terms of personal relationship, “sometimes” other person has more control than they do
(x=2.96) and they are also good at guiding the course of conversation with several others
(x=3.35).
Respondents are “often” certain to make them work once they made plans
(x=3.52). They learn almost anything if they set their mind unto it (x=4.04). Having a
single success makes them think of other successes (x=3.56) and major accomplishments
are entirely due to their hard work and ability. They usually set goals to make things
organized (x=3.81).
29
With respect to decision making, respondents “often” know how to make
decisions and act on them (x=3.95). They know how to take responsibility for their every
action (x=4.02) and to look at their decisions and change the poor ones (x=3.41).
As shown by Table 7, the overall impact of psychosocial concerns to trust issues
in selected Barangays of Bantay is “high”, with a mean of 3.68. The result shows that the
psychological concern of middle children regarding their trust issues is at a high level and
this may also be due to the same concern they have for being included or fitted in any
relationship, be it inside or outside their family.
They “always” trust themselves more than any other person as evidenced by a
“very high” mean rating of 4.26. In addition, the respondents are “often” certain that
people also trust them (xT =3.72) and that they can keep entrusted secrets to them (xT =3.69).
They can also often, freely share their secrets and accept others’ opinions (xT =3.62).
Furthermore, they are “sometimes” confident to share their undisclosed issues and
concerns (xT =3.39) and the people whom they’ve entrusted their secrets will not leak these
out (xT =3.38).
Table 8 presents that the respondents are “highly” concerned with their social
environment. The results imply that this may be due to their yearning of attention which
eventually causes them to be concerned that much to the society they are in.
Taken singly, the mean result of 4.75 shows that the respondents “always” feel
like they are welcome in the family, despite the feeling that they are “sometimes” being
ignored and uncared for (mean, 2.73). With a mean rating of 4.56 and 4.27, the table
shows that the respondents always feel happy with friends, and they can start and
maintain that friendship, respectively. They “often” work by themselves (xT =3.66), but
30
they still get along with others (xT =3.72), join parties or outing with friends and family
(xT =3.70), avoid being taken advantage of (xT =3.42), make friends easily (xT =3.85), enjoy
socializing (xT =3.68) and make themselves attractive to others (xT =3.58).
The results also show that the respondents “sometimes” prefer to spend time alone
rather than with others (xT =3.01); they don’t need others to tell them they have done a
good job (xT =3.08), and they “sometimes” get rid of social situations.
As shown on Table 9, the overall career preferences of middle children is “high”
as indicated by the mean, 3.61. This means that the respondents have a high concern
when it comes to career. The respondents often feel that they are confident to handle
responsibilities without constant assistance (x=3.67). Furthermore, they are certain to
make their plans work (x=3.77) and that they are satisfied with their own achievements
(x=3.77). The result implies that middle children are highly concerned with their career
hence it affects how they respond to situations in their lives. This can also be attributed to
the pressures they have at home seeking attention and their desire to make a difference
with their lives and future.
Moreover, the respondents “sometimes” can take risks (x=3.38). Often, they think
that they can handle the work better when they are alone (x=3.43), and they prefer more
challenging job (x=3.44) and can identify personal skills, interests and abilities relating
them in choosing career. In addition to that, career areas that fit their skills, abilities and
interests are identified by the respondents (x=3.56), understand the relationship between
educational achievement and career success (x=3.66) also in applying decision making
skills to career planning, course selection and career transition (x=3.58).
31
Furthermore, the respondents sometimes use employability as well as job
readiness in internship and other work experience (x=3.24). Majority of the respondents
often can explain how work can help to achieve personal success and satisfaction
(x=3.73), and learn how to work cooperatively with others as team members (x=4.04).
They sometimes demonstrate knowledge of the career planning process ((x=3.37).
Correspondingly, positive attitude toward work and learning are often developed
by the respondents (x=4.06) as well as understand the importance of responsibility,
dependability, punctuality, intensity and effort in the workplace.
32
Table 10
Mean Ratings Showing the Overall Level of Psychosocial Concern of the Respondents
PSYCHOSOCIAL CONCERNS Mean InterpretationPsychological Concern Mean 3.59 HighSocial Concerns Mean 3.66 HighCareer Concerns Mean 3.64 HighGRAND MEAN OF PSYCHOSOCIAL CONCERNS
3.61 High
Table 10 shows that the overall grand mean of psychosocial concerns is 3.61. The
results imply that there is a “high” psychosocial concern among middle children in
Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
As showed in the table, the psychological (x = 3.56), social (x = 3.66) and career
concerns (x = 3.64) all yielded a “high” level of concern among middle children. This
implies that middle children are affected in terms on how they include themselves to their
family and other people; how they perceive themselves; how they control and direct the
course of their lives and lastly how they trust themselves and other people. The results
may also imply that they are frequently affected by the society they were in. This means
that the respondents have a high regards or concern when it comes to their career.
33
4. Is there a relationship between the level of psychosocial concerns ofmiddle children and the personal and parental profile of respondents?
Table 11The Correlation Coefficient of the Respondents
Socio-Demographic Profile Psychological Concerns
Social Concerns
Career Concern
s OverallPersonal ProfileBelongingness
Self-Concept
Sense of Direction
Trust Issues
Age -0.1072* 0.1500* 0.1628* 0.0001 0.0757 0.1632* 0.1291*
Sex 0.1452* 0.0623 0.0753 0.1530* 0.2163* 0.0502 0.1448*
Number of Sibling -0.0143 0.2189* 0.0379 0.0228 0.1052* 0.0263 0.0733
Order of Birth -0.0022 0.1334* 0.0244 -0.0632 0.0868 -0.0120 0.0297
self – fulfillment are totally foreign to children in large families. They tend to be secretive
and do not openly share their thoughts and feelings.
In the published article of Judith Blake, Number of Siblings and Personality,
children from large families are believed to provide practice in learning social skills, and
to create a structural imperative to interact, share, and take others’ views and needs into
account. The evidence up to now tends to show that children from small families are
more sociable than those from large families.
Furthermore there is no significant relationship between the number of siblings
and Belongingness (-0.0143), Sense of Direction (0.0397), Trust Issues (0.0228), and
Career Concerns (0.0263)
On Order of Birth. OVERALL, with r=0.0927, it can be said that the order of birth is
not significant in the overall psychosocial concerns of middle children. This implies that
the order of the birth of middle children, be it any position in the middle does not affect
how they respond to their psychosocial concerns.
It is observed in the table that there is a significant direct relationship between the
Order of Birth and Self Concept (r = 0.1334). Research on birth order, sometimes
referred to as ordinal position have an effect on how he/she sees himself. The middle
child often seems to have the most negative impressions of his lot in life. Middle children
often feel like their older brother gets all the glory while their younger sister escapes all
discipline. Because the middle child feels that the world pays him less attention, he tends
to be secretive; he does not openly share his thoughts or feelings. But middle children
quite often miss out on developing a sense of trust as a result of feeling out of place,
38
ignored or unloved in a three-child family. The child learns to trust only himself, and this
causes major development issues as the child gets older.
Furthermore there is no significant relationship between the Birth Order and
Belongingness (0.0022), Sense of Direction (0.0244), Trust Issues (-0.0632), Social
Concerns (0.0868) and Career Concerns (-0.0120).
On Occupation. OVERALL, there is a significant relationship between personal
occupations of respondents and their psychosocial concerns, as supported by correlation
coefficient of 0.1669. It implies that these psychosocial concerns have an effect on the
occupation of the respondents and that, middle children are directed to accomplish their
work.
It is apparent in the table that self – concept (r=0.1513), sense of direction
(r=0.1349) and career concerns (r=0.1816) are influenced by the occupation of the
respondents. This entails that middle children tend to grow independently and they are
more focused and well – organized on their tasks. They are being forced to stand on their
own feet from such an early age that really do well in their lives. They are satisfied on
what achievements they have. As opposed by a study that self – concept of middle
children are not affected by their employment.
Moreover, there is no significant relationship existing between occupation and
belongingness, trust issues and social concerns.
On Grade School Performance. The table shows that there is a significant relationship
between grade school performance and sense of direction (r=-0.1717), trust issues (r=-
0.2217), social concerns (r=-0.1614) and career concerns (r=-0.2830). This implies that
middle children with no honor distinction are less inclined to achieving what they work
39
hard for and they are not always certain that the plans they set in mind will work. With
regards to trust issues and social concerns, they feel less confident in sharing any issues
or concerns to any other person and don’t get along well with others. In terms of career
preferences, they are lesser persuaded in developing positive attitude towards work, also
in identifying career areas that fit their skills, abilities and interests.
Furthermore, there is no significant relationship between grade school
performance and belongingness (r=-0.0850) and self-concept (r=0.0264).
On High School Performance. It can be seen in the table that high school performance
can greatly affect sense of direction (r=-0.1334), trust issues (r=-0.1788), social concerns
(r=-0.1682) and career preferences (r=-0.2653). This signifies that middle children with
no honor distinction during their high school years have lesser inclination in making
decisions, setting goals as well as taking responsibility of their own, since they feel that
they do not have much achievement and that they also tend to have low self-esteem. In
relation to trust issues and social concerns they are not always certain that people will not
reveal those issues and concerns they have entrusted to them and they do not usually
enjoy socializations and getting along well with people around them. Regarding career
preferences, they are not risk takers; they are not much inclined in handling
responsibilities and dependability in relation to work.
In addition, it has been found out that there is no significant relationship between
high school performance and belongingness (r=-0.0277) as well as self-concept (r=-0.
0606).
40
On Activity Inclination. There is also a significant relationship between activity
inclination and belongingness (r=-0.2487). This implies that a middle child inclined to
music and arts tend to be more emotional and prefer to be alone. This situation confirms
that they may have decreased sense of belongingness, since these activities are often done
alone.
On Parental Age. OVERALL, paternal and maternal age gained positive correlation
with the psychosocial concerns of middle children at r= 0.1725 and r= 0.2138,
respectively.
Findings show that there is a correlation between the paternal age and the
psychosocial concerns of middle child, in terms of their belongingness (r= -0.1975),
sense of direction (r= 0.1825), Social Concerns (r= 0.0973) and Career Concerns (r=
0.2558). The maternal age also gained significance with all the psychosocial concerns of
the middle child as shown in the table with r=0.2138.
According to Spitze and Logan (871), “As the number of siblings increases the
oldest and youngest tend to be closer to their parents other than the middle child”, over
time.
Forer also describes the middle child as “Threatened by severe feelings of
insecurity and inadequacy because he lacks recognition within the family. . . He is in
danger of not receiving enough affection”. This statement shows that as the parents reach
middle parenthood, the more the middle child conceptualize themselves as inadequate
and insecure.
41
After growing up in the middle the child might see himself developing into an
adult whose background in the middle prepared him for reality. As a result he might
work harder for recognition while making fewer demands from others along the way.
On Parental Occupation. As gleaned on the table, there is an inverse significant
relationship between father’s occupation and belongingness (r=0.1730). This indicates
that some fathers have lesser bonding time with their families due to their employment.
They have to work hard and sacrifice for the sake of their family. Sometimes, gaps
already exist between them and their children resulting to lesser sense of belongingness.
As seen in the table, the social concerns (r=0.0992) affects occupation of the
father’s respondents. Mostly, fathers usually hang out with their co-workers and friends
especially after office hours for relaxation and bonding.
On the other hand, there is no significant relationship between the occupation of
the father’s respondents towards self – concept (r=-0.0234), sense of direction (r=-0.0519
and trust issues (r=-0.0322) and career concerns (r=0.0629). OVERALL, r=-0.0237.
Regarding the relationship between the mother’s occupation and the middle
child’s psychosocial concerns, the value of the computed correlation coefficient (r=
0.0276) is below the required value at 0.05 probability level. This indicates that the
occupation of a middle child’s mother does not affect his psychosocial concerns.
On Monthly Family Income. OVERALL, with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.2021,
family income affects middle child’s personality and perception towards life challenges.
There is a significant relationship between monthly family income towards all the
psychosocial concerns except belongingness. (Self – concept, r = 0.1649; sense of
42
direction, r = 0.2302; trust issues, r = 0.1649; social concerns, r = 0.1288; and career
concerns, r = 0.2183).
This implies that middle children who have parents having monthly income of
5,000 and below didn’t realize that their family has low income and all they need was
each other. On self-concept, they tend to be more discipline and contented of what they
have. With regards to sense of direction, they set their goal for them to pursue, to
improve the quality of life they have. Trust issues and social concerns, they have trust for
their self and to other people. They are being friendly and easy to get along with. On
career concerns they have positive attitude toward work and learning leading to career
success.
43
CHAPTER III
Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations
This chapter summarizes the findings of the study, the conclusions drawn and the
recommendations offered by the researchers.
SUMMARY
The primary concern of the study was to determine the psychosocial concerns of
middle children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur. This study also determined the socio-demographic
profile and psychosocial concerns. Furthermore, it sought to find out the relationship
between the level of psychosocial concerns of middle children and the personal profile of
respondents such as age, sex, number of sibling/s, occupation, monthly family income,
school performances, and inclination to activities and parental profile which includes age,
occupation and family income.
The respondents of this study are composed of 100 middle children aged 12-30
years from the different barangays of Bantay, Ilocos Sur namely: Zone 1, 2, 4, 6, Sagpat,
Tay-ac and An-annam. They were selected through purposive random sampling.
The study made use descriptive correlation approach that utilized the adapted
questionnaires from the Rosenberg Self-Esteem and Likert Attitude Scales that was
modified based on the concepts presented in research.
Data gathered was interpreted using the frequency using the frequency count and
percentages and the simple correlational analysis.
44
FINDINGS
The following were the salient findings of the study:
1. Socio-Demographic profile of the Respondents
On Age. Most of the respondents, 56 (56%) are in the age bracket 12-16 years.
On Sex. Majority of the respondents, 55 (55%) are females.
On Number of Siblings. A greater percentage 42 of the respondents (42%) have
3 siblings.
On Birth Order. Among the 100 respondents, 62(62%) of the respondents are in
the second in their birth order.
On Occupation. Most of the respondents are students with a number of 70(70%).
On School Performance. The number of respondents who don’t have honor
distinction during their grade school (59) is greater. Same is through with the
school performance during high school – majority of them don’t have honor
distinction (72).
Activity Inclination. Thirty two (29.09%) of the respondents are mostly inclined
in Music and Arts.
2. Parental Profile
On Age. A greater percentage of the respondent’s father (37%) belongs to the 44
– 49 years of age. Most of the mother’s respondents belong to the 38 – 43 years old with
a percentage of 42.
On Occupation. Out of 100 fathers, forty five (45%) are skilled workers. Fifty
respondents’ mothers (50%) are unemployed.
On Income. Forty respondents (40%) has an income less than Php5, 000.
45
3. Psychosocial Concerns
A. Psychological concern
On Belongingness. The overall level of psychological concern of middle children
in terms of belongingness is “moderate” as indicated by the mean rating of 3.33. The
respondents “always” feel that they belong in the family (x = 4.61).
On Self-Concept. The respondents have “high” psychological concern under self-
concept as indicated by the mean rating of 3.63. The respondents “always” accept their
selves and they are happy (x=4.51); they always have more respect on their selves
(x=4.46), and are satisfied with their being (x=4.23).
On Sense of Direction. Majority of the respondents from the different barangays
of Bantay have a “high” psychosocial concern in terms of sense of direction as supported
by the mean rating of 3.73.
Middle child respondents “often” achieve what they want if they work hard
(x=4.18). ). They are “often” comfortable in confiding to their parents, brothers and
sisters (x=4.01).
Furthermore, respondents are “often” certain to make them work once they made
plans (x=3.52). They learn almost anything if they set their mind unto it (x=4.04). Having
a single success makes them think of other successes (x=3.56) and major
accomplishments are entirely due to their hard work and ability. They usually set goals to
make things organized (x=3.81).
With respect to decision making, the respondents “often” know how to make
decisions and act on them (x=3.95). They know how to take responsibility for every
action (x=4.02) and to look at their decisions and change the poor ones (x=3.41).
46
On Trust Issues. The overall impact of psychosocial concerns with regards to
trust issues is “high” with a mean of 3.68. They “always” trust themselves more than any
other person as evidenced by a mean rating of 4.26.
B. Social Concerns
The respondents are highly concerned with their social environment with a mean
rating of 3.66. The results also imply that they frequently have friends to gain acceptance.
Taken singly, the mean result, 4.75, shows that the respondents “Always” feel
they are welcome in the family, despite the feeling that they are sometimes being ignored
and uncared for (x=2.73). With a mean, 4.56 and 4.27, the table shows they “Always”
feel happy with friends, and they start and maintain that friendship, respectively.
C. Career Preferences
Middle children have a “high” psychosocial concern on career preferences as
denoted by the mean of 3.61. This means that the respondents have a high regards or
concern when it comes to career.
The respondents “often” feel that they are confident to handle responsibilities
without constant assistance (x=3.67), also they are certain to make their plans work
(x=3.77) and that they are satisfied with their own achievements (x=3.77).
Often times the respondents think that they can handle the work better when they
are alone (x=3.43), prefer more challenging job (x=3.44) and can identify personal skills,
interests and abilities relating them in choosing career. In addition to that, career areas
that fit their skills, abilities and interests are identified by the respondents (x=3.56),
understand the relationship between educational achievement and career success (x=3.66)
47
also in applying decision making skills to career planning, course selection and career
transition (x=3.58).
3. Relationship between the Level of Psychosocial Concerns of Middle Children and
the Personal and Parental Profile of Respondents.
On Age. Overall, with a correlation coefficient of 0.1291, there is a significant
relationship between the psychosocial concerns of middle children and age in terms of
belongingness (r= -0.1072), self-concept (r= -0.1500), sense of direction (r= 0.1628) and
career concerns (r= 0.1632).
On Sex. The correlation between sex and the psychosocial concerns of middle
children attained significance with r = 0.1448 and also along belongingness (r= 0.1452),
trust issues (r= 0.1530) and social concerns (r= 0.2163).
On Number of Sibling. In general, it can be said that the number of siblings is
not significant in the overall psychosocial concerns of middle children with r = .0733 as
well as Belongingness (-0.0143), Sense of Direction (0.0397), Trust Issues (0.0228), and
Career Concerns (0.0263)
On Order of Birth. There is no significant relationship between psychosocial
concerns of middle children and birth order along with Belongingness (0.0022), Sense of
Direction (0.0244), Trust Issues (-0.0632), Social Concerns (0.0868) and Career
Concerns (-0.0120).
On Occupation. There is a significant relationship between personal occupations
of respondents between their psychosocial concerns as supported by correlation
coefficient of r= 0.1669 along with self – concept (r=0.1513), sense of direction
48
(r=0.1349) and career concerns (r=0.1816) are influenced by the occupation of the
respondents.
On Grade School Performance . There is an inverse significant relationship
between psychosocial concerns of middle children and overall grade school performance
with r= -0.2495 and also with sense of direction (-0.1717), trust issues (-0.2217), social
concerns (-0.1614) and career concerns (-0.2830).
On High School Performance. There is an inverse significant relationship
between psychosocial concerns of middle children and overall high school performance
with r= -0.2358 as well as sense of direction (-0.1334), trust issues (-0.1788), social
concerns (-0.1682) and career preferences (-0.2653).
On Activity Inclination. There is no significant relationship between
psychosocial concerns of middle children and activity inclination r= 0.0444 along with
self-concept (r= 0.0835), sense of direction (r= 0.0537), trust issues (r= 0.0584), social
concerns (r= 0.0437) and career concerns (r= 0.0616).
On Parental Age. Findings show that there is a significant relationship between
the paternal age (r= 0.1725) and the psychosocial concerns of middle child, in terms of
their belongingness (r= -0.1975), sense of direction (r= 0.1825), Social Concerns (r=
0.0973) and Career Concerns (r= 0.2558). The maternal age (r= 0.2138) also gained
significance with all the psychosocial concerns of the middle child namely belongingness
(r= -0.1185), self-concept (r= 0.1090), sense of direction (r= 0.1923), trust issues (r=
0.0977), social concerns (r= 0.1629) and career concerns (r= 0.2496).
On Parental Occupation. There is an insignificant relationship between the
psychosocial concerns of middle children and occupation of the father’s respondents (r= -
49
0.0237) and towards self – concept (r=-0.0234), sense of direction (r=-0.0519 and trust
issues (r=-0.0322); same is true with career concerns (r=0.0629).
Moreover, the relationship between the mother’s occupation and the middle
child’s psychosocial concerns, the value of the computed correlation coefficient (r=
0.0276) is insignificant other than belongingness (r= 0.0558), self-concept (r= -0.0195),
sense of direction (r= 0.0003), trust issues (r= -0.0906), social concerns (r= 0.0699) and
career concerns (r= 0.0410).
On Monthly Family Income. With a correlation coefficient of r = 0.2021, there
is a direct, significant family between the psychosocial concerns of middle children and
income along with self – concept (r = 0.1649), sense of direction (r = 0.2302), trust
issues(r = 0.1649), social concerns(r = 0.1288) and career concerns (r = 0.2183).
CONCLUSIONS
The following conclusions were drawn from the findings:
1. Majority of the respondents belong to age bracket 12 to 16 years old, females,
with three numbers of siblings, second child, students, with no honor distinction
on grade and high school performances and inclined to music and arts.
2. Most of the fathers belong to age bracket 44 to 49 years old, skilled workers;
whereas majority of mothers belong to the age bracket 38 to 43 years old and
unemployed, with a monthly income of Php 5,000 and below.
3. The respondents have a “High” level of concerns in terms of psychological
aspect, social, and career concerns.
4. On the relationship between the level of psychosocial concerns of middle children
and the personal and parental profile of respondents; the personal and parental
50
age, sex, occupation, school performances, and monthly income attained
significance.
RECOMMENDATIONS
On the premise of the conclusions drawn by the researchers, the following
recommendations are forwarded:
1. A seminar on psychosocial concerns of middle children should be conducted for
parents to understand their children better.
2. A group of middle children should be organized, to serve as an avenue for sharing
their mutual interest, feelings and other concerns to help them overcome the
problems brought by being a middle child.
3. A copy of this research study should be given to the guidance offices of the
school where the respondents are studying for a better understanding of their
behavior and attitude.
4. The sociodemographic profile specifically the age, sex, number of siblings,
occupation, school performances and inclination to activities of middle children
should be the focus of counseling since these factors yielded a higher level of
psychosocial concerns of middle children.
5. A similar study should be conducted with the following considerations:
a. A larger scope of respondents and may include the parents and siblings as the
respondents to verify the middle child’s responses,
b. Other variables other than what was used in the study like sibling’s profile.
51
BIBLIOGRAPHIES
BOOKS:
Cameron, Norman. Personality Development and Psychopathology: A Dynamic Approach, Houghton Mifflin Company, copyright 1963.
E. Mavies Hetherington revised by Ross D. Parke Virginia Otis Locke. Child Psychology A Cotemporary Viewpoint updated 5th edition copyright 2003.
INTERNET SOURCES:
What is Middle Child Syndrome?Written by Ken BlackEdited by Bronwyn Harrishttp://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-middle-child-syndrome.htmlast modified: September 08, 2010; October 1, 2010
What is the middle child syndrome?http://www.essortment.com/all/whatismiddlec_rsoe.htmOctober 6, 2010
Middle Children: Finding Their Own Pride of Placeby Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P.reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P.http://www.drspock.com/article/0,1510,5547,00.htmlDate accessed: February 15, 2011
Psychology of the Middle Child Syndrome http://www.ehow.com/about_7228536_psychology-middle-child-syndrome.htmlDate accessed: February 15, 2011
Middle Child Syndromehttp://middlechildpersonality.com/middle-child-syndrome/Date accessed: February 15, 2011
What Is The Middle Child Syndrome?http://www.essortment.com/middle-child-syndrome-62872.htmlDate accessed: March 08, 2011
Birth Order And Its Effects On Personalityhttp://www.essortment.com/birth-order-its-effects-personality-64903.htmlDate accessed: January 03, 2012Middle Child SyndromeBy Diane Owens, eHow Contributorhttp://www.ehow.com/about_5483658_middle-child-syndrome.htmlDate accessed: January 03, 2012
Psychology of the Middle Child SyndromeBy Kate Cotton, eHow Contributorhttp://www.ehow.com/about_7228536_psychology-middle-child-syndrome.htmlDate accessed: January 03, 2012
Birth OrderFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopediahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birth_orderDate accessed: January 05, 2012
SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL CONCERNS OF MIDDLE CHILDREN AMONG BANTAY, ILOCOS SUR RESIDENTS
Part I: Personal Information: Kindly put a check mark on the box that correspond to your answer and write 1 to 5 on the circle that corresponds to your preferred activities where 1 represents the activity with the highest priority and 5 as the least.
Age ________ years oldSex Male FemaleNumber of siblings No siblings
One (1) sibling Two (2) siblings
Three (3) siblings Four(4) siblings Others: please specify
________Occupation Unemployed
Student Skilled worker
Private employee Government employee Self-employed/with
businessGrade School Performances
With honor/distinction
Without honor/distinction
High School Performance With honor/distinction
Without honor/distinction
College Performance With honor/distinction
Without honor/distinction
To you inclined more on what type of activities? (rank your answer from 1 to 5 on the )
Music and Arts
Poetry, Literary
Sports and Physical Fitness
Cooking/Gardening
Science
Mathematics
Part II: Parental Profile
Age Father: ________ years old Mother: ________ years oldOccupation Unemployed
Skilled work Retired/Pensioned Private employee Government
employee Self-employed/with
business
Unemployed Skilled work Retired/Pensioned Private employee Government
employee Self-employed/with
businessMonthly Family Income Less than Php 5,000
Php 5,000-Php 10,000 Php 10,0001-Php 15,000 Php 15.001-Php 20,000 Php 20,001-Php 25,000 More than Php 25,000
55
Part II.
A. Psychological Concerns:
STATEMENTStrongly
Agree Agree Uncertain DisagreeStrongly Disagree
Belongingness1. When I'm close to someone, it gives me a
sense of comfort about life in general2. I have trouble getting others to be as close
as I want them to be
3. I am very comfortable being close to others
4. I worry about others abandoning me5. Being close to someone gives me a source
of strength for other activities6. I worry that my family doesn't love me7. I always feel that I belong in the family8. I feel ignored and unwanted
Self Concept16. I feel that I am a person of worth17. I am inclined to feel that I am a failure18. I am able to do things as well as most other
people19. I feel I do have much to be proud of20. I am satisfied with myself21. I have more respect for myself22. I have confidence in my general ability to do
things and to cope with situations.23. I accept myself as I am and am happy with
myself24. I feel valued and needed25. I can accept criticisms without feeling
putdown26. I admit my mistakes openly27. I never hide my true feelings28. I always speak up for myself and put my
views across29. I don’t worry what others think of the views30. I don’t need others approval to feel good
Sense of Direction13. I can achieve what I want if I work hard for
it.14. In my personal relationships, the other
person has more control than I do.15. Once I make plans, I am almost certain to
make them work.16. I’m good at guiding the course of a
conversation with several others.17. I can learn almost anything if I set my mind
56
to it.18. My major accomplishments are entirely due
to my hard work and ability.19. I usually set goals to make things organized.20. I’m comfortable in confiding to my parents,
brothers and sisters.21. Having a single success makes me think of
other successes.22. I know how to take responsibility for my
action23. I know how to make decision and act on
them24. I know how to look at my decisions and
change the poor onesTrust Issues
7. I trust myself more than any other person.8. I am confident to share my undisclosed
issues and concerns.9. I am certain that the people whom I’ve
entrusted my secrets will not leak them out.10. I am certain that people also trust me.11. I keep entrusted secrets.12. I can freely share my secrets and accept
opinions.
B. Social Concerns:
STATEMENTStrongly
Agree Agree Uncertain DisagreeStrongly Disagree
14. I feel like I am welcome in the family.
15. I prefer working by myself.16. I often experience being ignored and
uncared for
17. I feel happy with my friends.
18. I get along well with others.19. I prefer to spend time alone rather than
with others20. I love joining parties or outing with friends
and family.
21. I avoid being taken advantage of
22. I make friends easily23. I don’t need others to tell me I have done a
good job
24. I enjoy socializing
25. I know how to start and maintain friendship
26. I make myself attractive to others
57
27. I get rid of fear of social situationC. Career Preferences:
STATEMENTStrongly
Agree Agree Uncertain DisagreeStrongly Disagree
17. I am confident that I can handle responsibilities without constant assistance
18. Once I make plans, I am almost certain to make them work
19. I am satisfied with my achievements
20. I am a person who can take risks21. I know that I can handle my work better if
I’m alone
22. I prefer a more challenging job23. I can identify personal skills, interests and
abilities and relate them to career choice24. I can identify career areas that fit my skills,
abilities, and interests25. I understand the relationship between
educational achievement and career success
26. I apply decision – making skills to career planning, course selection and career transition
27. I use employability and job readiness skills in internship, and other work experience
28. I can explain how work can help to achieve personal success and satisfaction
29. I learn how to work cooperatively with others as a team member
30. I demonstrate knowledge of the career – planning process
31. I develop a positive attitude toward work and learning
32. I understand the importance of responsibility, dependability, punctuality, intensity, and effort in the workplace
58
Appendix B
LETTER TO THE DEAN OF THE COLLEGE OF NURSING
Republic of the PhilippinesUniversity of Northern Philippines
College of Nursing
March 8, 2011
Prof. Brigida F. de LeonDean, College of NursingUniversity of Northern PhilippinesVigan City
Madam:
We would like to request permission from your good office to float the questionnaire to gather data needed for our research work entitled Psychosocial Concerns of Middle Children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
This study will enable us to complete the requirements for the degree, Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
The kind and favorable action that your office shall take on the above request shall be greatly appreciated.
Very truly yours,
Sgd. Cardenas, Sheena T.Sgd. Bonaobra, Marie Christine Joy P.
Sgd. Mendoza, Maybelle Ann R.Sgd. Omaoeng, Suzette R.
Sgd. Palaca, Haydee Marie A.Sgd. Tactay, Melody A.
Noted:
Sgd. THEA C. TURQUEZA, MAN, RN Adviser
59
Appendix C
LETTER TO THE MUNICIPAL MAYORRepublic of the Philippines
University of Northern PhilippinesCollege of Nursing
March 10, 2011Hon. Sammy ParillaMunicipal MayorBantay, Ilocos Sur
Sir:
Greetings!
The undersigned Bachelor of Science in Nursing Third Year Students of the University of Northern Philippines are conducting a research study entitled Psychosocial Concerns of Middle Children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
Barangays 1, 4, 6, Sagpat and Tay – Ac were chosen as our areas of study. In this regard, may we ask permission to conduct the study in the said barangays among the respondents.
Thank you for your assistance. Very truly yours,
Sgd. Cardenas, Sheena T.Sgd. Bonaobra, Marie Christine Joy P.
Sgd. Mendoza, Maybelle Ann R.Sgd. Omaoeng, Suzette R.
Sgd. Palaca, Haydee Marie A.Sgd. Tactay, Melody A.
Noted:
Sgd. THEA C. TURQUEZA, MAN, RN Adviser
Approved:Sgd. BRIGIDA F. DE LEON, MN, RN
Dean, College of Nursing
60
Appendix D
LETTER TO THE BARANGAY CAPTAINS
Republic of the PhilippinesUNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN PHILIPPINES
Vigan City
COLLEGE OF NURSING
March 13, 2011
Barangay Capt. Percival VicencioBarangay IBantay, Ilocos Sur
Sir,
Greetings of peace and joy!
The undersigned Bachelor of Science in Nursing Third Year Students of the University of Northern Philippines are conducting a research study entitled “Psychosocial Concerns of Middle Children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur”.
Barangay I is chosen as one of our areas of study. In this regard, may we ask your permission to conduct the study in your barangay among the respondents.
Thank you for your assistance.
Respectfully yours,
Sgd. Cardenas, Sheena T.Sgd. Bonaobra, Marie Christine Joy P.
Sgd. Mendoza, Maybelle Ann R.Sgd. Omaoeng, Suzette R.
Sgd. Palaca, Haydee Marie A.Sgd. Tactay, Melody A.
61
Republic of the PhilippinesUNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN PHILIPPINES
Vigan City
COLLEGE OF NURSING
March 12, 2011
Barangay Capt. Reino JarigueBarangay VIBantay, Ilocos Sur
Sir,
Greetings of peace and joy!
The undersigned Bachelor of Science in Nursing Third Year Students of the University of Northern Philippines are conducting a research study entitled “Psychosocial Concerns of Middle Children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur”.
Barangay VI is chosen as one of our areas of study. In this regard, may we ask your permission to conduct the study in your barangay among the respondents.
Thank you for your assistance.
Respectfully yours,
Sgd. Cardenas, Sheena T.Sgd. Bonaobra, Marie Christine Joy P.
Sgd. Mendoza, Maybelle Ann R.Sgd. Omaoeng, Suzette R.
Sgd. Palaca, Haydee Marie A.Sgd. Tactay, Melody A.
62
Republic of the PhilippinesUNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN PHILIPPINES
Vigan City
COLLEGE OF NURSING
March 12, 2011
Barangay Capt. Hilario PaetBarangay Tay-acBantay, Ilocos Sur
Sir,
Greetings of peace and joy!
The undersigned Bachelor of Science in Nursing Third Year Students of the University of Northern Philippines are conducting a research study entitled “Psychosocial Concerns of Middle Children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur”.
Barangay Tay-ac is chosen as one of our areas of study. In this regard, may we ask your permission to conduct the study in your barangay among the respondents.
Thank you for your assistance.
Respectfully yours,
Sgd. Cardenas, Sheena T.Sgd. Bonaobra, Marie Christine Joy P.
Sgd. Mendoza, Maybelle Ann R.Sgd. Omaoeng, Suzette R.
Sgd. Palaca, Haydee Marie A.Sgd. Tactay, Melody A.
63
Republic of the PhilippinesUNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN PHILIPPINES
Vigan City
COLLEGE OF NURSING
March 13, 2011
Barangay Capt. Rolly PacpacoBarangay SagpatBantay, Ilocos Sur
Sir,
Greetings of peace and joy!
The undersigned Bachelor of Science in Nursing Third Year Students of the University of Northern Philippines are conducting a research study entitled “Psychosocial Concerns of Middle Children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur”.
Barangay Sagpat is chosen as one of our areas of study. In this regard, may we ask your permission to conduct the study in your barangay among the respondents.
Thank you for your assistance.
Respectfully yours,
Sgd. Cardenas, Sheena T.Sgd. Bonaobra, Marie Christine Joy P.
Sgd. Mendoza, Maybelle Ann R.Sgd. Omaoeng, Suzette R.
Sgd. Palaca, Haydee Marie A.Sgd. Tactay, Melody A.
64
Appendix E
VALIDATION LETTER
PSYCHOSOCIAL CONCERNS OF MIDDLE CHILD
Name: Loida AlconcelPosition: Middle Child Mother
Direction: Kindly indicate the extent to which the questionnaire is able to identify the psychosocial concerns of middle children using the following scale:
5= very much
4= much
3= average
2= poor
1= very poor
Items 5 4 3 2 11. Are the items included in the questionnaire clear, concise, and easily understood?2. Do the items included in the questionnaire adequately measures the level of psychosocial concern of middle children?3. Are the items included in the questionnaire enough to measure the significant relationship between the personal profile and parental profile and psychosocial concern of middle children?
Comments/ Suggestions:
The items in the questionnaire are clear and briefly stated. Congratulations__________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Sgd. Loida Alconcel
EVALUATOR
65
VALIDATION LETTER
PSYCHOSOCIAL CONCERNS OF MIDDLE CHILD
Name: Eva Marie C. AvilaPosition:
Direction: Kindly indicate the extent to which the questionnaire is able to identify the psychosocial concerns of middle children using the following scale:
5= very much
4= much
3= average
2= poor
1= very poor
Items 5 4 3 2 11. Are the items included in the questionnaire clear, concise, and easily understood?2. Do the items included in the questionnaire adequately measures the level of psychosocial concern of middle children?3. Are the items included in the questionnaire enough to measure the significant relationship between the personal profile and parental profile and psychosocial concern of middle children?
Direction: Kindly indicate the extent to which the questionnaire is able to identify the psychosocial concerns of middle children using the following scale:
5= very much
4= much
3= average
2= poor
1= very poor
Items 5 4 3 2 11. Are the items included in the questionnaire clear, concise, and easily understood?2. Do the items included in the questionnaire adequately measures the level of psychosocial concern of middle children?3. Are the items included in the questionnaire enough to measure the significant relationship between the personal profile and parental profile and psychosocial concern of middle children?
Comments/ Suggestions:
Ok except for some typos/errors, however I’d like to see questions responding feelings of middle child in relationship to other siblings.________________________________________________
Sgd. Elton Ong
EVALUATOR
67
Appendix F
LETTER TO THE RESPONDENTS
Republic of the PhilippinesUNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN PHILIPPINES
Vigan City
COLLEGE OF NURSING
March 13, 2011
To the respondents:
Greetings of peace and joy!
The undersigned Bachelor of Science in Nursing Third Year Students of the University of Northern Philippines are conducting a research study entitled “Psychosocial Concerns of Middle Children in Bantay, Ilocos Sur”.
In this regard, may we ask your help by answering a survey form related to our study. We are looking forward to your favorable approval regarding the aforementioned request.
Thank you and God bless!
Respectfully yours,
Sgd. Cardenas, Sheena T.
Sgd. Bonaobra, Marie Christine Joy P.Sgd. Mendoza, Maybelle Ann R.
Sgd. Omaoeng, Suzette R.Sgd. Palaca, Haydee Marie A.
Sgd. Tactay, Melody A.Noted:
Sgd. THEA TURQUEZA, MAN, RNAdviser
Sgd. PROF. BRIGIDA F. DE LEON, MAN, RNDean, College of Nursing
68
Appendix G
CURRICULUM VITAEName: Sheena Tating Cardenas
Age: 20 years old
Address: Cabangaran, Santa, Ilocos Sur
Date of Birth: July 11, 1991
Sex: Female
Civil Status: Single
Religion: Roman Catholic
Parents:
Mr. Edmund G. Cardenas
Mrs.Maria T. Cardenas
Siblings:
Brother: Kelvin Heirold T. Cardenas
Sisters: Crystal T. Cardenas
Ruffa Mae T. Cardenas
Educational BAckground:
Primary: Basug Community School
Secondary: Ilocos Sur National High School
College: University of Northern Philippines
Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Motto: “Don’t believe in your doubts but don’t doubt your beliefs.”
“We can go farther than we can alone.”
69
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Marie Christine Joy Piano Bonaobra
Age: 20 years old
Address: Capangpangan. Vigan City
Date of Birth: September 8, 1991
Sex: Female
Civil Status: Single
Religion: Roman Catholic
Parents:
Mr. Bonifacio Bonaobra
Mrs. Marietta Bonaobra
Sibling:
Brother: Ronnie Bonaobra, Bonifacio Bonaobra III
Jomarie Bonaobra
Sisters: Girlie Mandapat, Rosalinda Bonaobra
Marie Grace Bonaobra, Wilhelm Bonaobra
Educational Background:
Primary: Capangpangan Elementary School
Secondary: Ilocos Sur National High School
College: University of Northern Philippines
Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Motto: “Think only of the BEST, work only for the BEST and expect only the BEST! “
70
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Maybelle Ann Rabago Mendoza
Age: 19 years old
Address: Ayusan NorteVigan City
Date of Birth: February 18, 1992
Sex: Female
Civil Status: Single
Religion: Roman Catholic
Parents:
Mr. Manuel P. Mendoza Sr.
Mrs. Florencia Mendoza
Sibling:
Brother: Michael Mendoza, Manuel Mendoza Jr.
Mark Khean Mendoza
Sisters: Michelle Mendoza
Maris Cris Mendoza
Educational Background:
Primary: Burgos Memorial School West
Secondary: Ilocos Sur National High School
College: University of Northern Philippines
Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Motto: “With God, all things are possible”
71
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Suzette Requilman Omaoeng
Age: 20 years old
Address: Poblacion, San Vicente, Ilocos Sur
Date of Birth: September 7, 1991
Sex: Female
Civil Status: Single
Religion: Roman Catholic
Parents:
Mr. Samuel G. Omaoeng
Mrs. Angela R. Omaoeng
Sibling:
Sisters: Sally Veronica O. Ruaro
Shirley Omaoeng
Sharon Omaoeng
Educational Background:
Primary: San Vicente Central School
Secondary: Ilocos Sur National High School
College: University of Northern Philippines
Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Motto: “Put your trust in the Lord and go ahead, worry gets you no place.”
“God is good all the time”
72
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Haydee Marie Antiporda Palaca
Age: 19 years old
Address: Aguila’s Compound, Ayusan Norte, Vigan City
Date of Birth: February 04, 1992
Sex: Female
Civil Status: Single
Religion: Roman Catholic
Parents:
Mr. Roy B. Palaca
Mrs. Heidi A. Palaca
Sibling:
Brother: Michael Roi A. Palaca
Educational Background:
Primary: Divine Word College of Vigan
Secondary: Ilocos Sur National High School
College: University of Northern Philippines
Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Motto: “Everything happens for a reason”
“Live life to the fullest”
“God is good, all the time”
“Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.”
73
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Melody Aboy Tactay
Age: 20 years old
Address: Quimmarayan, Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur
Date of Birth: November 29, 1991
Sex: Female
Civil Status: Single
Religion: Roman Catholic
Parents:
Mr. Medardo R. Tactay
Mrs. Emely A. Tactay
Sibling:
Brother: Wilson A. Tactay, Franklyn A. Tactay
Joan A. Tactay
Sisters: Mary Jane T. Jaramillo
Angelica A. Tactay
Educational Background:
Primary: Quimmarayan Elementary School
Secondary: Lussoc National High School
College: University of Northern Philippines
Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Motto: “To fail means you’ve TRIED! To hurt means you’ve LOVED! To survive means you’ve LEARNED! Life is not a coincidence. It’s an echo of what we invest”
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”