A Phenomenological Exploration of Parental Struggles with Children’s School Absenteeism

Abstract

The Philippine education system has been grappling with student absenteeism, which negatively affects academic achievement and future success. Student absenteeism remains a persistent concern in Philippine elementary schools, particularly among learners from low-income communities. While existing studies primarily emphasize student-centered causes of absenteeism, they have paid limited attention to the lived experiences of parents who directly manage and respond to their children’s frequent absences. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences, challenges, and motivations of parents of elementary-aged learners who exhibited frequent school absenteeism during the 2025–2026 school year. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen parents. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis guided by Creswell’s qualitative framework. Findings revealed that parental struggles with absenteeism are shaped by interconnected factors, including children’s health conditions, economic hardship, peer-related concerns, and reduced learner motivation. Despite these challenges, parents demonstrated sustained guidance through supportive and disciplinary strategies rooted in their firm belief that education offers a pathway to a better future. The study contributes to existing literature by highlighting parental perspectives on absenteeism. It underscores the importance of strengthening school–family partnerships and context-responsive interventions that address both learner and family needs.