International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume V, Issue I, January  2021 | ISSN 2454–6186

Handling Children in Conflict with the Law:
From the Journals of Field Instruction Students

Amelyn Laro, R.S.W., M.A.S.W.
Social Work Program
Holy Cross of Davao College

ABSTRACT:- This is a qualitative study which aims to know the experiences of Field Instruction students are and their interventions extended to the Children in Conflict with the Law while they were assigned as interns in San Pedro Police Station. The study utilized a well-defined content analysis procedure “text analysis” which looks into the common experiences and interventions of these students in one semester of Field Instruction subject. A focus group discussion with Children in Conflict with the law was also conducted to know the “take on” of the clients on the interventions extended. The study will also share the insights of the Field Instruction Students in the public in general and to the academe in particular. The result of the study showed that the common experiences of the Social Work Interns includes extensive use of their observation skills, exposure to the different behaviors of the CICL and learning how to practice social work principles like acceptance, individualization and confidentiality. Furthermore, these experiences help them develop skills in dealing with families and communities and other sectors involved with Community Based Programs for Children in Conflict with the Law.

Keywords: Handling Children in Conflict with the Law, Experiences, Interventions, Field Instruction

INTRODUCTION

Based from the Republic Act 9344 or also known as the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act of 2006 the law mandated all Local Government Units to appoint a duly licensed social worker as its local social welfare and development officer. A social worker assigned in this position was tasked in assisting children in conflict with the law in the implementation of the “Diversion Program”. This is a program which required a child who committed violations against the law to participate in various activities when the child was found responsible for an offense as a result that child will not attend formal court proceeding. In reality, there are few studies about the preparation of social work schools for their students in their role as future social workers handling juvenile cases.