Advisers

Irene D. Gaviola, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Child-at-risk prevention strategies are essential in protecting children from engaging in criminal and risky behaviors. Barangay Sauyo, Quezon City implements interventions to address this concern, but their effectiveness and challenges need evaluation. This study assessed child-at-risk prevention strategies in terms of family-based intervention, community-based strategies, support services, and interpersonal strategies. It determined respondents’ demographic profiles based on highest educational attainment, length of residency or years in service, and socio-economic status; evaluated strategies family-based (risk assessment, collaboration, coordination), community-based (school-based mentorship, recreational activities), support services (family support, guidance counselor), and interpersonal (cognitive, spiritual); identified differences in assessments; determined implementation challenges; and proposed interventions to improve programs. The study involved sixty (60) respondents from Barangay Sauyo, including parents/guardians, Barangay Council for the Protection of Children members, Women and Children Concern Section officers or police officers, guidance counselors, youth leaders/sports facilitators, social welfare workers, teachers, and ministers. Purposive sampling was used with a quantitative descriptive design. Formal letters requesting permission were submitted to the Barangay Chairman through his Secretary and to the Station Commander of Police Station 3, Talipapa, Quezon City. Upon approval, a briefing was conducted, questionnaires were distributed, and data were collected, tallied, analyzed, and interpreted. Findings showed most respondents were college graduates (67%), had 10 years or more residency (48%), and belonged to the lower-middle class (42%). All strategies were rated Very Effective, family-based: risk assessment (3.36), collaboration (3.28), coordination (3.27); community-based: school-based mentorship (3.25), recreational activities (3.38); support services: family support (3.27), guidance counselor (3.35); interpersonal: cognitive (3.38), spiritual (3.42). No statistically significant difference was observed (p = 0.181). The main challenge was children’s low motivation to participate (100%). The study recommends strengthening and coordinating spiritual, values-based, and community programs, exploring causes of low motivation, and developing practical, engaging interventions to improve participation and effectiveness.

Keywords

Prevention Strategies, Child-At-Risk, Family-Based Intervention, Community-Based Strategies, Support Services, Interpersonal Strategies, Barangay Sauyo