shantheapsychies

[shantheapsychies]

"Thriving at 76: Living an Active and Vibrant Life"

The 2 psychies, Althea and Shanine were curious to learn about life and development in late adulthood which includes the person's physical, cognitive, and socioemotional milestones, as well as the challenges and satisfaction experienced in this stage of development. For this, an interview was conducted and the 2 psychies went again on an exciting trip to Bago, Davao City to meet Tatay Leonardo, a 76-year-old man. In the interview, Tatay Leonardo shared information about his life, the things he enjoys, and how he stays positive as he ages. The conversation was joyful and enlightening, helping the interviewers to understand better the ups and downs of growing older. 

Tatay Leonardo, in his 76 years of age, lives with an active lifestyle and a healthy physical condition. Knowing his age, he shared that he’s free from arthritis, has good eyesight and hearing, and loves walking long distances, jogging when accompanied, and doing household chores. Tatay Leonardo continues to live a balanced and healthy lifestyle through regular physical activity and being mindful of what he eats. He occasionally enjoys liquor as well but with self-control, as he is aware that he needs to take care of his aging body. He also shared that he used to be a basketball player before, a hiker, and said that exercise gives him enthusiasm which reflects his commitment to staying active.

However, despite Tatay Leonardo’s active lifestyle, he still gets minor physical discomforts such as “panuhot” (cold-induced pain or discomfort) specifically in his upper back and he uses herbal remedies for it named “mistika”. Also, weeks ago, he shared that he experienced an allergy and his doctor temporarily restricted him from eating chicken, eggs, and seafood, which could trigger his allergy. Not long after, he recovered from the allergies and went back to eating such foods without issues and is using antibacterial soaps to keep himself clean and safe from germs and bacterias. His ability to recover and adapt reflects his resilience and practical approach to health management.

At his age, Tatay Leonardo remains mentally sharp and engaged in his late adulthood. He shared that he still has an excellent memory, good decision-making abilities, as well as clear eyesight and hearing. However, he said that his decision-making was sharper in his younger years and that he was skillful in managing financial challenges, such as budgeting in response to the high inflation rate in the Philippines. Tatay Leonardo also keeps his mind active by using technology. He enjoys browsing YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok, engaging with reels, and communicating with others. However, he avoids mobile games like Mobile Legends due to their potential to cause shocks but embraces platforms that allow for social interaction and creative expression. This activity in technology helps him stay mentally stimulated and socially connected, presenting adaptability and curiosity. And of course, his focus on eating healthy foods, balancing his diet, and physical activities contribute mostly to his awareness of the connection between physical and cognitive health.

Also, Tatay Leonardo's socioemotional well-being reflects contentment. He said that he is content with his life, finding joy in playing music, cooking, watching TV, and spending time with relatives and friends. Despite never marrying, Tatay Leonardo is at peace with his single status. However, he recalls and shared an important moment in his younger years when he planned to propose to his girlfriend. Together with his father, Tatay Leonardo went to his girlfriend’s home in the mountains but was surprised and got confronted by a man with a lagaraw (machete), who informed him that the woman was already in a relationship. After this incident, he decided not to pursue romantic relationships further, instead, he focused on living a happy-go-lucky life.

Tatay Leonardo values simplicity and integrity as well. He believes that we should just focus on what we have rather than desire to get everything in this world. He also advises avoiding illegal activities like theft or drug use, as these may only harm one's well-being. Further, his spirituality plays a significant role in his outlook in life. He said that he trusts in God to guide him, bless him, and determine the length of his life. He also aims to live up to 85 or 100 years, depending on God's will, while staying true to his principles.

In Tatay Leonardo’s career, he studied commerce but went on working in the laboratory field for Coca-Cola from 1974 to 1988. During this time, he was involved in mixing recipes and contributing to the production process. He reflects positively on his career and shared that soft drinks are not harmful if consumed in moderation and balanced with enough water. After retiring, Tatay Leonardo shifted his focus to enjoying life. He now lives with his nephew in a quiet neighborhood, preferring the peace of “mingaw” (tranquility) over the “samok” (referring to the noise and chaos) of his old neighborhood in Matina, Davao City. In addition, Tatay Leonardo enjoys financial stability through a pension, which he manages wisely. While he occasionally buys lottery tickets, he balances it with generosity and careful budgeting. Also, he continues to find satisfaction in his simple joys such as traveling, staying active, and being surrounded by his loved ones.

Tatay Leonardo’s life has not been without challenges, as he said that he handles them with a lighthearted attitude. He experienced struggles but never found them overwhelming, choosing to see life’s challenges as manageable. Plus, he got his 2 buddies to help him get through the struggles in life, as well as his relatives. In addition, he advises to avoid stress, emphasizing that it negatively affects both the body and the mind.

Tatay Leonardo’s life in late adulthood is a testament to balance, resilience, and contentment. From his physical activeness and cognitive sharpness to his contented emotional life, he exemplifies how to deal with aging with grace. His past experiences, including his career in commerce and Coca-Cola, his failed romantic proposal, and his decision to embrace simplicity, have shaped his optimistic outlook in life. By focusing on health, integrity, and faith, Tatay Leonardo enjoys a joyful and simple life, cherishing the time he has with his family, friends, and God.

Thoughts from the Interviewer:

As I listened to Tatay Leonardo, an idea popped into my head which was “Love is inseparable from pain, as well as joy is inseparable from sorrows”. There’s no chance that you’ll have a hundred percent perfect life, there’s no such thing as perfect in this world. We went on our ways, made mistakes, failed, and even stopped doing something or loving someone. However, no matter how hard life is in the present or how tragic your past is, hold onto something or someone to be hopeful for. As long as you’re breathing, you still have the chance to change yourself, redirect your paths, and live a meaningful life. Life does not end when you fail, it ends when you stop doing what nurtures “life”. And of course, we shouldn't be doing things that will kill life. Be open to experiences, but do not compromise and neglect the principles that will help you to live a meaningful life.

Tatay Leonardo's life amazes me, but when he shared about his failed romantic proposal and said "Mao ra to, last na to, wala na jud", I felt sad that he experienced that and he was not able to give himself the chance to meet someone else. Nevertheless, I'm so blessed for meeting him and knowing about his shared stories, his journey in late adulthood, as well as the insights I gained from him.

[shantheapsychies]

GOITER KA LANG, SI TERESITE AKO 😌🥰

MIDDLE ADULTHOOD

In Davao City, where bago aplaya researchers met a 59-year-old Mrs. Teresite, Ms. Shanine interviewed Mrs. Teresite. They introduced each other and talked a bit to loosen up. Shanine first asked about the physical development of Mrs. Teresite, a high school graduate; she is one of the PWD because of her condition, which is a goiter. Because of her condition, she has difficulty pronouncing such words, especially because of her not having teeth anymore. Mrs. Teresite was aware that during her aging there were big physical changes, such as her now experiencing a lot of pain in her body and having a hard time breathing because of her situation having the condition. Which makes it hard for her to walk a long distance because of the dust that can make her cough. Dancing is one of the activities/exercises she does and also what makes her active and enjoyable in her daily life.  Mrs. Teresite danced, especially if they had events in their barangay, which they practiced. Despite Mrs. Teresite having a condition she has, it still doesn’t stop her from enjoying her life and being satisfied in her life. In Mrs. Teresite’s condition, it doesn’t affect her daily life because dancing is one of the things that helps her be active daily. Whenever Mrs. Teresite has a problem, she doesn’t overthink and she does not have much stress. Mrs. Teresite said, “As long as my daughters have something to eat, and financial problems are the number one problem,” coping with the challenges in her physical health or stressing the experience. She just does her hobbies, which are dancing and going out with her friends. Talking with her neighbors helps her to let the problems out of her because she believes that if problems are talked about or let out, it helps to not have a heavy feeling in her chest.

Ms. Shanine now asks about the cognitive development of Mrs. Teresite, such as her memory, problem-solving abilities, and decision-making as she ages. Firstly, one of the changes she noticed was her hearing and eyesight. She is having difficulty hearing sometimes, and her eyesight is far away, which should be in close objects. That's also what the researcher observed in Mrs. Teresite while signing the consent. Mrs. Teresite asked the researcher to be the one writing her name because she couldn’t read small letters. Mrs. Teresite plays games like Candy Crush and reads to challenge her mind. She doesn’t have a cellphone on her own, but she uses a cellphone when her daughter has free time to borrow one.

In socioemotional development, Mrs. Teresite is having a good and fun relationship with her friends, family, and neighborhood. Some of her friends have been friends together for 20 years, which is good because that’s when she lets her problems out or talks about them. The most fulfilling aspect of this stage of Mrs. Teresite’s life is being with her family and partner and having blessings and food to eat (that’s what she described). When Mrs. Teresite is participating in dancing, which is one of the things she enjoys. Lastly, Mrs. Teresite changed her perspective on life, and her goals did not change as she aged because having blessing food and making her daughter graduate from college were her goals. 

Challenges and satisfaction of Mrs. Teresite  The most challenging middle adulthood stage of her life was having her condition in her 40s to 50s, especially when the pandemic happened. There was no access to clinics, and the only thing that kept her alive was the medication that her partner gave her, and she didn’t go to the hospital until now. Although there are a lot of offers for surgery for her condition, the goiter. But she is scared to undergo surgery.

In overcoming these challenges, she does not stress about it; she keeps praying, and she does not overthink because whatever happens to her, she accepts it. The interviewer, Ms. Shanine, asked the last question, which is, What advice would Mrs. Teresite give to younger individuals in preparing for middle adulthood? Mrs. Teresite said, “While you’re still young, have fun and prioritize your studies, and when you’re in the stage of middle adulthood, whatever happens to you, accept it. And don’t forget God.”

Ms. Shanine was glad to hear that, and finally, she finished her interview and gave a token, which was rice, as a thank you for agreeing to have Mrs. Teresite interviewed. One of the interviewers observed that Mrs. Teresite is a jolly person and a person who believes in God.  

[shantheapsychies]

Taking Responsibility: The Influence Was You All Along

 Shanine and Althea was challenge to find someone in early adulthood. Luckily, they found someone who was just in the neighborhood of Althea. The interview was conducted on October 29, 2024, at Bangkerohan. John is 29 years old, living in Bangkerohan, and working as a chef, waiter, and cashier. He worked there for 2 years with his partner and his child. The interviewers first introduced themselves and gave consent to Mr. John after filling out the consent form. The interviewer Shanine started to ask about his habit if Mr. John is an alcoholic or cigarettes, and Mr. John answered that he does occasionally drink alcohol and cigarettes after work. Mr. John also has the habit that every morning before starting his work he does stretching first, which is his physical activity. The interviewer also asked Mr. John if he noticed any physical changes, and according to Mr. John, he did notice his body weight, which increased from 38 kg to 50 kg. 

In the cognitive development of Mr. John, since he was 20 years old and has GF, he used to enjoy and go places to enjoy with his friends and GF. But unexpectedly, his girlfriend got pregnant with him; he had no choice but to face his responsibilities, and because of that, he did everything to support and meet the needs of his partner and baby as a working construction worker. Then he realized it was so hard to be a construction worker, so he found other jobs, and then he found a job as a cook, waiter, and cashier in Bangkerohan. Because of the unexpected happening to his partner, he began to think critically and make decisions to do everything to support their living. Which is one of the improvements he has made since he was in adolescence to early adulthood. 

In the cognitive skills of Mr. John, since he is a cashier, chef, and waiter, he does planning, problem-solving, and using math to calculate their daily income. Mr. John has been working in the karenderya for 2 years, and this is something he would want to improve more with his cooking. The interviewer asked Mr. John if he thought about going to school to be a chef, but Mr. John didn’t think of that because he was still focusing on his child that is in school and his partner, hoping that her partner would soon pass the board exam and become a teacher. That's what Mr. John wants to pursue. 

Mr. John, with his socioemotional development, was in a good relationship with his family, friends, and romantic partner. But Mr. John mentioned that when he was still in a school, first-year high school, he was influenced by his friends because he thought that those are the reasons why he stopped in first-year high school and did not graduate. When Mr. John is 16 years old, he is friends with 40 years old. He said he would prefer to be friends with someone 40 years old than with someone his age because, according to him, he learned a lot from them, and one thing he will never forget the lesson he learned is to respect. When Mr. John is stressed with his work or in his life, he manages that by listening to music or watching anime, as it helps him to relax. 

What challenges and how satisfied is Mr. John with his life? 

The interviewer asked Mr. John to rate on a scale of 1 to 10 (1 = very unsatisfied, 10 = very satisfied) how satisfied he was in his life. He then rates it with a 10 because, because of his current work, he can provide for the needs of his own family and be with his child and partner. Mr. John was asked what was the biggest challenge for him during his early adulthood. As he mentioned above, Mr. John being a construction worker was the thing that made him realize that it is not that easy to work like this; it was so challenging for him because of the weather during that time, which was so hot. But the good thing is for him; he found the Karenderya job, and it's one thing that makes him satisfied with his life. Mr. John is a simple guy because for him he does not dream of becoming wealthy. What's only important for him is to provide for the needs of his family and to survive. Mr. John's most fulfilling aspect of early adulthood is having his baby, and he was especially happy that it was delivered healthy. Mr. John is not expecting anything in his life or the coming years to change his cognitive, socioemotional, and physical development. He believed whatever happened happened. One thing in his life that has a big impact on him is that from adolescence to early adulthood he was unexpectedly given a responsibility with his partner, a 22-year-old girl who got pregnant by Mr. John. Because of that, he faced every challenge, accepted his responsibility, and became who he is now: a good father for his child and partner, a good son for his family, and a good man for himself for not avoiding or running away from his responsibilities. 

The interviewer additionally asked for advice from Mr. John, and he said, “Don’t let yourself be influenced by your friends; do that; listen to others about what they are going to say to you; you do you, and you will do good.” Both interviewers were happy to hear that advice as it could relate to them. Mr. John was then given a token as a thank you for his kindness to be interviewed. 

[shantheapsychies]

"Echoes of Youth: A Journey Through Adolescence"

“Adolescence is a new birth, for the higher and more completely human traits are now born.” ~G. Stanley Hall

Althea Quirante and Shanine Claiza Dadong traveled again to explore the perspectives and experiences of a person who is currently going through the development stage of adolescence. On November 29, 2024, a 17-year-old male named Marco from Toril, Davao City, participated in the interview about the physical, cognitive, and socioemotional milestones, challenges, and satisfaction experienced in the adolescent stage of development.

Physical changes in the adolescence stage were first discussed during the interview. Marco said that he noticed changes in his height, weight, and voice. He added that when he was 15 years old, his height was 5’5 feet and turned into 5’7 feet in the present year. He also gained weight from 55 kilograms to 60 kilograms. His voice became deep and manly as well when he turned 16. In addition, physical changes, self-esteem, and confidence were discussed. Marco said that his confidence and self-esteem improved as physical changes occurred compared to before. Marco also engaged in physical activities such as jogging and weight lifting. Marco added that the force he has to do with his physical activities has led him to have better focus, performance, and physical and mental health. Marco also added that one of the mind games he likes to play is chess, which he considers a mental sport.

Marco also shared his changes in cognitive aspects after the COVID-19 pandemic. After quarantine, Marco improved in critical thinking and understanding of certain situations. He shared that he improved in handling social interactions, using the right words to say, and respecting the boundaries of people around him. Also, in making decisions, he became the person who critically thinks about his thoughts before taking action. He also added that in this stage of development, he has a better understanding of his sister’s mood and attitude.

Marco also shared the challenges he encountered in his academic field. He said he had difficulty asking for help and approaching his class and groupmates. He added that whenever he encountered questions and difficulties before, he would feel too shy to approach his classmates and often solve and do his schoolwork on his own. However, he added that this only happens when the school work is not too complex like research.

Marco shared the influential people in his life as well. He first mentioned his parents as they were the ones who had been with him as he grew up, then followed by his teachers. Marco added that both his parents and teachers provided instructions and guidance in life and academic aspects. In addition, Marco stated that the most influential person or people in his life are his peers. Marco said that he mostly spends his time with his peers and he unconsciously does the actions and habits that his peers practiced. He said that his peers either influence him positively or negatively. Marco added that his relationships with his peers are both supportive and challenging. He said that he gets support from his peers In the events and tasks he is involved in, respects his decisions, and encouragement in life. However, Marco said that he also experienced a temporary distance from his peers after a conflict, like for a week, and then came back to their normal status. He added that boys often prefers to suppress or hide their feelings and deal with them through jokes. As emotions will always be part of human lives, Marco shared that he mostly suppressed his pain and sadness, and the emotions he mostly expressed were anger. In the aspects of emotions, he added that he would prefer to “go with the flow”, stating that “ whatever happens, happens.”

Overall, Marco shared that the most challenging part he experienced in the adolescence stage of development was having social interactions and communication with people around him in most areas, as he said that he used to be isolated back then and just started to expose himself to many people when he turned 16. However, he added that it would be easy for him if the people around him would approach him first. Marco said that the most rewarding and enjoyable part of his journey in adolescence was slowly overcoming his difficulty in interaction and communication with people around him as he built a circle of friends a year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Marco also wished to have engaged in social interactions in his early adolescence to be good with it in his present life. And in the physical aspect, he added that he felt better and superior in the changes in his height as he grew taller. Lastly, Marco shared that he is satisfied with his stage of development in the present, however, he added that he would prefer his life in the ages of 14-15 as the better years of his life, as he is currently experiencing pressure in life and academic aspects.

Thoughts from the Author:

The adolescence stage of development is like a rollercoaster journey, full of fun and exploration with a mix of confusion and pain. And it’s fine not to know everything or to be an expert in our lives. It’s fine to experience and express certain emotions, and it would be better to start and learn things late than never. What matters is that you are moving forward, growing, and bearing good fruit.

[shantheapsychies]

Esabella, during her 8 years of life. 

October 11, 2024 the day was the interviewers shanine and althea travel to aplaya to interview 8 years old Ms. Esabella. She was a grade 3 student and she live with her parents and has 1 brother. The interviewer shanine started to get to know the child esabella by asking questions of whats her favorite games to play. The child enjoy to draw and basketball with her brother and cousin. The child does not enjoy playing races with her friends and soccer. Because she is afraid to stumble or fell because her mother might get mad at her, because in her past she fell because of playing  races  with her friends and her mother scolded her. So, she avoids games that she might stumble.

The child doesn’t do exercises but According to her,  school and playing are the things that she commonly does. Esabella likes to learn math and english, she also knows how to do addition. But the child doesn’t know how to do multiplication, and it’s difficult for her to do multiplication. But when she experience difficulties the child is still trying  to do the  multiplication  and listening to her teacher helps her do the math. If math and english are her favorite, the child doesn’t like MAPEH and MTV subject. As she doesn’t like to sing and dancing in front of her teacher and her classmates because it makes her shy. As she only does dancing and singing in her house because thats what a comforting environment for her.

The interviewer ask if the child enjoy reading and what kind of books she likes. Proudly to say, Esabella  is good at reading and likes to read stories such as Pangkwentong mga bata and barbie in her house or school. And she also love watching horror, barbie or anything genre she likes. Shanine also ask the child if she has friends and what they love to do, according to Esabella she has two best friend and they love playing and hanging out with them.  The interviewer also ask  the child if what makes her happy, sad, or angry and what she does when feels that way and according to her, the child feels happy if she is with her parents eating together, going to church together, playing with her brother and friends. what makes her sad is that if her parents doesn’t give things that she wants, if her flowers and vegetables doesn’t grow because Esabella is also good at planting vegetables and flowers as she learns it from her parents, and some of her classmates doesn’t want to play with her, and there’s this classmates that make fun of her telling her she’s ugly because that classmate is jealous of her because of the Ballpen she have that her best friend give it to her. But the bully child does not do physically hit her but it is the type of verbal bullying. Right now, the child and the bully kid is not classmate anymore and the bully kid also apologizes to her.

The interviewer felt sad about the kid thats why she ask the kid if her mother knows about this, according to the child her, she doesn’t want to tell her mom because she is afraid that she might get scolded and she is concern of her classmates that will get scolded too by her mom. When the child is bullied she only ignore or telling the bully kid to stop. She doesn’t get mad or hate the kid because Esabella believes that she doesn’t want to make a sin because Jesus might report to God of her sin and her teacher said its bad to fight back because she might caught by police. She also learn that if she feels mad she will just put her hand on her pocket to stop herself to fight back and to go to CR to punch something to let the anger out. Because fighting back is bad even though she knows that bullying her is also bad.

Knowing this situation, the interviewer told the child that if  ever she will get bully again she will run immediately to her teacher and also to ignore the bully kid. Playing  and drawing with her brother and friends becomes her hobbies and activities.

And lastly, the interviewer ask the child if what the child want to become in the future  and what something that the child wants to learn more and to get better about it. Listening and reading is what Esabella wants to get better at it and in the future the child wants to become a teacher as she is inspired by her teacher that is kind to her because the teacher let her eat snacks whenever the child ask the teacher if she can eat snack.

The interviewer was amazed and felt happy for the child because shanine see the kindness in Esabella by being concerned to a person even though that person makes her feel sad. And what the interviewer amazes about the child is that the reason why the child is agreed to be interview because the child wants to learn something during in interview. At age of 8, Esabella is so innocent and kind. A religious child learn to be kind to others and be afraid to commit a sin. After the interview, shanine give Esabella a token as a thank you for agreeing to be interview. Shanine saw how excited and happy Esabella is  with her brother to open the gift in their house. 

[shantheapsychies]

"Steps Along The Way: The Journey of Early Childhood Development"

Everybody went through their early childhood development, however, some of us could not remember our experiences during this stage of development. The only ones who can explain it are the ones who have cared for us since we were a young child. And here's the journey of two students who went to visit and interview the caregiver of a child regarding their child's physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development. Althea Quirante, together with her partner Shanine Claiza Dadong, went to Bago, Davao City on October 11, 2024. They interviewed "Joe-ann", the mother of the cute curly girl named "Tanisha". In the interview, Joe-ann shared her observations and experiences with her 3-year-old child who is currently going through early childhood development. Observation and open-ended questions were done by the interviewer to obtain information and insight from the roller coaster journey of the mother and the child.

Joe-ann, the mother of Tanisha was interviewed about her child's early childhood development and the first thing that was discussed was Tanisha's physical development. According to Joe-ann, Tanisha has been growing fast and gained weight from being 13 kilograms when she was 2 years old, and then 15 kilograms when she turned 3. Joe-ann added that Tanisha started walking when she was turning 1 year old and in the present day, Tanisha has been able to walk, run, jump, and play with the kids in the neighborhood. Joe-ann also said that the child was really "hyper" and could stay awake until late at night to midnight. As to Tanisha's fine motor skills, Joe-ann said that the child loves writing and drawing, and can hold a pencil or crayons.

Regarding Tanisha's present physical health, Joe-ann said the child is healthy. However, Joe-ann added that Tanisha was diagnosed with Pneumonia before and can still experience "Subaw" or mild fever and cough, and one of the treatments she used for her child when experiencing cough is the "Lagundi Syrup". And despite the mild sickness that the child experienced, Joe-ann said that Tanisha would rather move around and walk than stay in bed.

Moreover, Tanisha started speaking at 1 year old and can speak simple words and sentences. When it comes to the child's communication with the caregiver, Joe-ann said that Tanisha freely tells her anything that she wants such as her interests, unwanted things, and the things that would have hurt or frustrated her such as "ma sakit akong tiyan" and "suko na kaayo ko". Joe-ann added that Tanisha would speak her thoughts and ask her many questions such as "ma kumusta ka?" and "ma nag-unsa ka?", and said that Tanisha was curious about her parents and people around her. As the world evolves with new high technologies and social media platforms, Joe-ann said that the child was early exposed to TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Joe-ann added that Tanisha has also watched "coco melon", "the Jana Kid", and other kids learning videos. Tanisha at a young age was also able to identify colors and letters in the Alphabet through the help of technologies and social media platforms, however, Joe-ann said that she has to prevent her child from using technologies like smartphones as Tanisha's eyes have been teary. As one of Tanisha's hobbies is drawing, Joe-ann said that Tanisha usually draws shapes and she added that anytime Tanisha sees a writing or coloring material, Tanisha would use it anywhere that Joe-ann cannot stop the child from writing or drawing even in the corner of the room of their neighbors' house. Additionally, Joe-ann mentioned that Tanisha likes seeing injections and would act like a doctor as Tanisha would approach and tell her with "injeckan tika ma" and "Tan-awn tika mang kung nagginhawa pa ka". Nevertheless, Joe-ann said that she and her husband have fully supported the child's interests according to their (capabilities), and with the help of their friends and neighbors.

On the socioemotional aspect of Tanisha, Joe-ann said that the child loves playing with the kids in their neighborhood and has no problem interacting with other people. Joe-ann described Tanisha as a jolly and playful girl and with her young age, Joe-ann added that the child still experiences tantrums and frustrations especially whenever the child is teased by other kids or adults. Additionally, as Tanisha is a playful kid, Joe-ann said there are times when she gets mad at her child, and she has to spank her child as a form of discipline. However, Joe-ann added that she only applies it when it comes to the point that the child won't listen to her after being warned multiple times.

During the interview, Joe-ann was asked about what aspect of her child's development she was most proud of and she said that it was Tanisha's advancement in terms of intellect and social. Joe-ann even referred Tanisha as "Bata nga murag Tigulang" as the child speaks like an adult and could even get mad at her mother for not listening to her, and for giving her tasks more than twice. Joe-ann added that other people have also said that her child is "tabian" and "bright".

Joe-ann said that they are not fortunate enough to provide all the wants of Tanisha, but have still given their best and effort to provide the needs of their child. Joe-ann added that her child would listen to her and Tanisha would not force them to get her wants. Joe-ann has also expressed her gratitude as their friends and relatives have supported the child's material needs and even guided her child in growing up.

Interviewer's Observation:

During the interview, the child "Tanisha" was having fun with her playmates and she just ran around the room, hid under the table, and spoke many words, fastly. It was like the young kid was having a growth spurt in her speech, and surprisingly, her words were clear and correct. One thing that stuck in my head was when the young kid was listening to us as we discussed the support and guidance of the caregiver, Tanisha just said "ganahan kong papa". Joe-ann said that her husband works at night and has only time to play with Tanisha during the day. She added that they do their best to provide for the needs of their child, especially in guiding the child as she grows up. Also, Tanisha expressed her excitement about going to school and mentioned "mag school ko unya sa bagosaka". Everyone giggled and had fun with what Tanisha said.

As we said our goodbyes to the families and their children, I conclude that Tanisha is a bright young kid and has done great as she grows and develops.

[shantheapsychies]

Life as a teenage mom

Together with Shanine and her partner Althea Quirante, they both travel from Roxas to Toril to interview Ms. Mikylla born and grew up in Toril. They were picked up by Mikylla with her baby, who was sleeping, and her partner on their way to their new house because back then, Mikylla and her partner used to live with her mother but got a new house in the compound of her mom.

Shanine started to interview Ms. Mikylla. Mykilla was 17 years old when she was pregnant with Zyrina and now Mikylla is 18 years old. She was planning to continue her study as she stopped from senior high school, grade 11. During mikylla pregnancy, her weight changed to 50–60 kg, and after giving birth, her weight dropped from 42 kg, and now she is using Depo for preventing pregnancy. Her baby weight from 2-3 months is 6.2 kg and now 4 months 7 kg. According to Mikylla, Zyrina pooped 3 times a day in 1-3 months and now 1-2 times a day. When an infant was sick, Mikylla asked in the pharmacy what medicine she should use when her baby was having a stuffy nose, and after that she bought the medicine. Only one take of medicine, and the baby recovers from a stuffy nose. Mikylla still continues her habits, such as alcohol and cigarettes, after giving birth. 

Mikylla life as a teenage mom was doing fine; there’s no pressure or problem financially because she has her partner supporting her. Though there is a limit and changes, such as there is a limit time when she hangs out with her friends compared to the past, she can just go wherever she likes and whatever time it is. Mikylla loves to give baths to her baby and carry a baby because she loves her baby so much that she loves taking care of it. Since her baby was only 4 months old right now, Mikylla said it was not hard to take care of her baby because it was not giving her a hard time to take care. And the baby only cried when it wanted to be breastfed; that's why Mikylla has good sleep and was not having a lack of sleep. In guidance, Mikylla mom was only telling her what to do about taking care of a baby, but Mikylla does everything in taking care of a baby since her mom is working in matina crossing and her mom is also visiting Mikylla house, and also when her mom is working every night, her mom is always asking for a photo of a baby. According to her, she was not able to feel emotionally and physically exhausted or tired during taking care of her baby because she loved what she was doing. When she experienced stress in her situation, her way to cope with this stress/exhaustion was just to find videos to watch and to hang out with her friends with her baby because Mikylla doesn’t want to leave her baby with someone, so when she was stressed, she just went out with her baby and hung out with her friends. 

Mikylla did not experience a hard time taking care of her baby, and because of that, Mikylla was not also experiencing physical pain during the taking care of her baby and having a healthy, happy lifestyle. If there was a difficult time, Mikylla was very positive to handle it together with her partner. The fun situation Mikylla experienced with her baby was when they both took a bath, while Mikylla also had an uncomfortable situation when a baby was having a poop time, but she handled it well. As she observes the changes in her baby every month, Mikylla does overthink the future of her baby. What will Zyrina become in the future? But she will definitely support her daughter in the future as what Mikylla said. Shanine also ask Mikylla if there was a situation where with her partner they fight and it affects her baby. Mikylla said it does not affect their baby, and they only fight once a month as her partner constantly avoids fighting with Mikylla. Mikylla doesn’t have a problem if she will be alone taking care of her baby since she can do it by herself even without her partner. As she is confident to handle her baby and her own life. But Mikylla's partner was also a supportive partner, helping her take care of the baby and financially supporting his new family, Mikylla and their baby.

During an interview, shanine and althea  observations of an infant are that it cries for a minute, then stops, and the infant likes to stare at what she likes, such as her toys and colors. And of course it moves a lot. Sometimes she puts her mouth on her toy, and she also plays her saliva as it bubbles in her mouth. According to her mom, when she was pregnant, she loved eating crabs, so maybe that explains why Zyrina likes to bubble her saliva. When an infant starts to cry, her mom immediately breastfeeds her, and Mikylla said she always does that whenever a baby cries. Shanine also ask Mikylla what she observes during 1-4 months on her baby, and according to her, it cries for a long period of time when not giving a breastfeed immediately when starts crying. The baby sleeps late at night during the interview with shanine according to her observation, as Mikylla said; it depends if they have visitors to the baby, and if there are no visitors, the infant sleeps early. Mikylla and her partner have this tablet for a baby to watch Cocomelon at just 2 months old. And they also put the baby in a walker when an infant was just 3 months old.  

After the  interview, Mikylla with her baby and her partner were nice enough to drop off shanine and Althea on the highway. They also took a picture, as you can see above. Shanine  and Althea give gift as a thank you for accepting their interview. 

[shantheapsychies]

"Embracing the Journey: A Pregnant Woman's Path to Motherhood"

“Every day is a struggle," said a pregnant woman in an interview with psychology majors from Davao. The interview was conducted by Althea Quirante and her partner Shanine Claiza Dadong at Ilustre Street, Davao City. The future mother named "Jiene," living her life for 29 years on this earth, is in her 6th month of pregnancy. Jiene is a pastor in one of the local churches in Davao, a loving wife, a caring sister, and one of the positive people that was met by the interviewer. Her journey in pregnancy is both a blessing and a struggle.  

Pregnancy's Effect on the Mother's Physical, Cognitive, and Socioemotional Aspect  

At first, Jiene shared her experiences on her first pregnancy, wherein she had a miscarriage. During her first pregnancy, she experienced frustration, light aggression, and sickness. These are commonly experienced by pregnant women, which is why patience is needed in dealing with and taking care of them. Jiene carried the fetus for more than a month, but sadly, she lost the baby in March and was told by her specialist to rest and refrain from pregnancy for 3 months. However, in May 2024, she noticed signs of pregnancy but was not convinced and repeatedly told herself that she couldn't be pregnant because the specialist told her so. But then she took a test, went for a checkup, and confirmed, "Jiene is pregnant." Isn't that a miracle?  

In the first month of her second pregnancy, she experienced nausea, saliva, or liquid vomiting and didn't want the smell of rice and detergents. She said that it was not just a morning sickness but an "all day" sickness since she experienced it any time of the day. She also said that she was on a diet of veggies for 3 days but then craved fast foods and even soft drinks. Another physical change that Jiene experienced during her pregnancy was her weight, from 44 kilograms to 53 kilograms. She also experienced back pains way more and easily got tired of getting groceries and walking, compared to her strength and body before, when she wasn't pregnant. The interviewer also asked her if she had a hard time with transportation or commuting, and surprisingly, Jiene experienced a kind of worry due to bumpy rides when she commuted by jeepney compared to a tricycle, taxi, or bike, even though she was advised not to take on a bike. Jumping up on her mood and emotions, she said that there are times when she wants something in a "certain time" and easily gets frustrated. Such as looking for her brother and wanting him to get home at a certain time and adding that she gets stressed because of it. She also added that most of the time she would look for her husband if he's in town, but feels chill and okay when he's out of town. Which was found by the interviewer as "unusual." Jiene said that it's really hard to control yourself during pregnancy, and there may be times that you cannot control yourself, and for her, she said that "if wala, wala jud" (referring to her cravings and wants). Not forcing and just letting things be that way. Also, during her pregnancy, she regularly gets checkups and is given "pampakapit" by the doctor to make sure that the baby is safe and secure and that Jiene will not experience a miscarriage again.  

Jiene, as a future mom, wanted to hear the heartbeat of her baby, saying, "Dapat makadungog jud kog heartbeat." By listening and watching her convey her thoughts and feelings, the interviewer felt a heartwarming feeling seeing the woman talk about hearing the heartbeat of her child. Jiene added that she also talks to her baby, and the baby would just kick the bump from the inside. Her experiences during June and July were hard for her, but she encouraged herself positively with the words "mahuman lang jud ni." Pregnancy is not easy at all, the pregnant woman "Jiene" added about her preparation or if she is ready in all aspects, such as physical, mental, and financial, that "you will never know when you will be ready." Jiene may want to be a mother, but she said that when you get into the stage of pregnancy, you will be surprised and be like, "Oh, some pregnant women were like this and like that, but I wasn't like that on my pregnancy." You will never know when you will be ready, but when you get there, you will have to adjust and balance such things.  

A Healthy Mindset 

Jiene added that she was grateful to God for being a pregnant woman, or a "mom." She repeatedly said that it was all in your mindset. Some things may happen and come into your life, and it is very important to be mindful of your decisions, not just in pregnancy and as a future mom but in all aspects. Balance your thoughts and emotions. She also said that it's better to have more knowledge and not just experience because when you get in a certain situation and you already have an idea of how to handle it, you will get through it healthily.  

Hopes and Plans for the Future  

Jiene was asked about her hopes for her child in the future, and she said that she wants to be a hands-on mother. She also wants to breastfeed her child since it's the best and most healthy for a baby. Staying at home or working at home is one of her plans once the baby comes out, as being hands-on in leading and nurturing your child's development is very important. She added that she wants to look after and be there in the early stages of her child. Jiene wants what's best for her child, similar to most of the mothers on earth.

  

Conclusions from the Writer/Interviewer:  

What amazed me as an interviewer was seeing a pregnant woman casually conveying her thoughts and feelings to us. One thing that hit me is when she said generally that "you can't depend everything on someone." Knowing that each of us has individual battles and we must not be just a burden but more on being a blessing to others. I am so blessed to have met her in person and had a little chitchat; not only did I learn and know her experience with her pregnancy, but I also gained insight that would help me to grow as a person. Developmental psychology brought me to learn more about human physical, cognitive, and social development. All I can say is that I am so blessed and favored.