Verzosa, Exequiel Ian R.

Sikolohiyang Filipino Final Output

3.1 Bachelor of Science in Psychology Mr. John Rene G. Brecia

Parental Bonds and Cultural Ties:

Understanding the Connection of
"Utang na Loob" in
Filipino Parenting
Parental Bonds and Cultural Ties:
Understanding the Connection of
"Utang na Loob" in
Filipino Parenting
"Challenging Cultural Norms: A Critical Analysis of 'Utang na Loob' and Its Role in
Filipino Parental Responsibilities"

ABSTRACT

This journal analysis explores the profound cultural influence of "utang na loob" in Filipino

parenting, shedding light on its impact on family dynamics and the psychological well-being of

individuals, particularly breadwinners. The study delves into the intricate interplay of societal

expectations, familial roles, and the evolving perspectives of Filipino youth in navigating their

responsibilities to their parents. Drawing on Hegel's theory of Responsibility, the research

contends that actions within the familial context attain the status of true responsibility when

intricately tied to a sense of moral obligation, shaping both individual and collective identity.
Verzosa, Exequiel Ian R. Sikolohiyang Filipino Final Output

3.1 Bachelor of Science in Psychology Mr. John Rene G. Brecia

Filipinos are deeply rooted in the culture of the Philippines, which values the concept of "Utang

na loob" (debt of gratitude), which refers to moral obligation when someone shows kindness

and helps others. This sense of obligation is not limited to friendships but is also prevalent within

Filipino families, where parents expect their children to repay their sacrifices and provide a good

future, especially when facing financial difficulties. The strong bond between families, especially

parents, is a key factor in Filipino culture, and children are expected to prioritize familial

obligations over personal preferences and this is connected to the academic journal "Parental

Bonds and Cultural Ties: Understanding the Connection of "Utang na Loob" in Filipino

Parenting A Journal Analysis" by Nicole Gutierrez of Our Lady of Fatima University it The

paper focuses on Filipino parenting, specifically parental expectations, children's duties, and

tensions between conventional and developing roles. It also tackles the psychological

consequences of providing for the family, such as stress, anxiety, and potential mental health

issues for breadwinners.

In the journal of Nicole Gutierrez, "Parental Bonds and Cultural Ties:

Understanding the Connection of "Utang na Loob" in Filipino Parenting: A Journal

Analysis," it highlights three main topics about Understanding the Connection of Utang

na Loob in Filipino Parenting. First is the family dynamics of utang na loob, according

to Manguin (2022), where parents want their children to be thankful for the gift of life

and their existence and give them an education that will protect them in the future. and

when they graduate from college and have a job, either the first child or any of their
Verzosa, Exequiel Ian R. Sikolohiyang Filipino Final Output

3.1 Bachelor of Science in Psychology Mr. John Rene G. Brecia

siblings, the financial responsibility will pass, which means they are the ones who are in

charge of the expenses of their siblings, like education or personal expenses. Additionally,

there's a cultural expectation that unmarried children are also expected to care for their

parents in old age. However, there is a different viewpoint that contradicts this

conventional narrative, arguing that children should not feel obligated to repay their

parents' efforts. Instead, supporters of that perspective highlight the importance of

establishing genuine familial relationships based on love and mutual respect, rather than a

sense of duty.

Second is Filipino parenting; here in the Philippines, parents have important

roles in shaping their children (Pag papalaki ng mga anak nila). They want that their

children will finish and focus on their education to get better work and a good salary so

they can have a good life for their future and repay their parents for their sacrifices or

break free from poverty. (Alampay, L. P., & Jocson, R. M., 2011).

And the last that highlights the main topic of "Parental Bonds and Cultural Ties:

Understanding the Connection of "Utang na Loob" in Filipino Parenting A Journal

Analysis" is the psychological effects. Here, it focuses on the pressure and stress of

being a family breadwinner or sole provider because sometimes they usually put their

family first than themselves, like the financial needs of their parents, siblings, and

sometimes relatives, and it's very hard for them to say no because, as we all know, some

of the parents and family relatives think that repaying them is an obligation, and they are

called “ungrateful”"” for all the things that they have done. That’s why they are making a

making a full effort for their job to enable them to have more support for their parents and
Verzosa, Exequiel Ian R. Sikolohiyang Filipino Final Output

3.1 Bachelor of Science in Psychology Mr. John Rene G. Brecia

siblings for their needs. Even family relatives are involved in the expenses because they

are family. That’s why even though the breadwinner has his or her own family, they still

continue supporting them because sometimes they are obligated. And as breadwinners,

behind all the things that they have done to be a good provider, they are also experiencing

problems in their work and personal lives that family members and friends do not notice,

like stress and burnout, which can lead to depression or other mental health problems.

That’s why it’s important for families to recognize and address these challenges to

support the provider's emotional resilience and foster a healthier dynamic.

Therefore, the journal of Nicole Gutierrez, "Parental Bonds and Cultural Ties:

Understanding the Connection of "Utang na Loob" in Filipino Parenting, focuses on the

concept of “Utang na loob" (debt of gratitude), which refers to moral obligation when

someone shows kindness and helps others. And it is common in a family household

because we are in a culture that is family-oriented. That’s why it's very important to give

back to our parents and family members, even though sometimes it causes pity and stress

that can affect the wellbeing of the breadwinner. And there’s nothing wrong with giving

back to their parents; the wrong is making it an obligation and being labeled as

“ungrateful/walang utang na loob” for all the things that the parents have done, which is

their responsibility to raise and give you a good life.

References:
Verzosa, Exequiel Ian R. Sikolohiyang Filipino Final Output

3.1 Bachelor of Science in Psychology Mr. John Rene G. Brecia

-Gutierrez, Nicole & Mabulay, Emmanuel Paciano. (2023). Parental Bonds and Cultural Ties:

Understanding the Connection of "Utang na Loob" in Filipino Parenting A Journal Analysis

submitted as a final requirement for the Social Psychology (SOCP311).

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/

376716246_Parental_Bonds_and_Cultural_Ties_Understanding_the_Connection_of_Utang_na_

Loob_in_Filipino_Parenting_A_journal_Analysis_submitted_as_a_final_requirement_for_the_S

ocial_Psychology_SOCP311

-C. (2023, September 8). The Evolution of Family Dynamics in the Philippines. Camella Homes.

https://www.camella.com.ph/the-evolution-of-family-dynamics-in-the-philippines

-Alampay, L. P., & Jocson, R. M. (2011). Attributions and attitudes of mothers and fathers in

the Philippines. Parenting: Science and Practice, 11(2–3), 163–176.

https://doi.org/10.1080/15295192.2011.585564