Utang na loob and psychological well-being of students living with host families
Cristine Jade R. Yordan, Zhaira Marie R. Amular, Joyrie Y. Lagmay, Kristine Marie M. Simangan, Hannah D. Verdadero, Joseph S. Callanta, Riella Mar S. Agapito & Allyssa G. Castronuevo
Abstract
This study, conducted from October 2024 to January 2025, examined the relationship between the five dimensions of utang na loob (gratitude), respect, satisfaction, reciprocity, obligation, and closeness, and the psychological well-being of estudyanteng nakikitira (students living with host families). Specifically, it sought to determine the levels of utang na loob across these dimensions, assess respondents’ psychological well-being, and examine the relationships between each dimension and psychological well-being. Using a correlational research design and purposive snowball sampling, data were collected from 85 participants through the Utang na Loob Scale and the Psychological Well-Being Scale. Results showed that higher scores in utang na loob were associated with moderate psychological well‑being. Significant relationships were found for respect, satisfaction, reciprocity, and closeness. Students with high utang na loob scores were more motivated to reciprocate and express appreciation, fostering positive relationships and personal growth. Limitations suggested the need to refine the utang na loob instrument and explore its role in other contexts; examining its relationship with psychological well-being or other Western psychological constructs.
Keywords
gratitude, positive relationship, estudyanteng nakikitira, Filipino culture
Author information & Contribution
Cristine Jade R. Yordan. Corresponding author. BS Psychology Graduate. Cavite State University – Silang Campus. Email: cristinejade.yordan@cvsu.edu.ph
Zhaira Marie R. Amular. BS Psychology Graduate. Cavite State University – Silang Campus.
Joyrie Y. Lagmay. BS Psychology Graduate. Cavite State University – Silang Campus.
Kristine Marie M. Simangan. BS Psychology Graduate. Cavite State University – Silang Campus.
Hannah D. Verdadero. BS Psychology Graduate. Cavite State University – Silang Campus.
Joseph S. Callanta. RGC, RPm. Assistant Professor and Chairperson, Cavite State University – Silang Campus. Email: jscallanta@cvsu.edu.ph
Riella Mar S. Agapito. RPm. Psychology Faculty, Cavite State University – Silang Campus. Email: riellamar.agapito@cvsu.edu.ph
Allyssa G. Castronuevo. RPm. Psychology Faculty, Cavite State University – Silang Campus. Email: allyssa.castronuevo@cvsu.edu.ph
"Authors 1 and 3 proposed the research topic, while all five authors collaborated in conceptualizing the research framework, with Author 1 taking the lead role. All authors participated in the literature review, and Author 1 provided the major contribution by synthesizing the key sources. Authors 1 and 2 drafted and revised the proposal manuscript, with substantial contributions from Author 1. All authors contributed to data collection by gathering and finalizing the necessary documents, as well as to investigation through preparation and actual data collection. Authors 1 and 2 conducted the formal analysis and interpretation of data, with Author 1 providing the major contribution. Author 1 took the lead role in drafting, revising, and editing the final manuscript to ensure clarity and coherence, while all authors contributed to reviewing. Author 1 provided overall supervision and ensured the study’s academic quality both in writing and in the conduct of the research. Finally, all authors reviewed and approved the final version of the paper and accepted responsibility for its content."
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Funding
This work was not supported by any funding.
Declaration
AI tools were not used in writing this paper.
Notes
This paper is a finalist in the 5th International Research Conference (IRC) and presented in the 3rd International Student Research Congress (ISRC).
Acknowledgement
The authors extend their deepest gratitude to all who provided unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement throughout the course of this study. Your belief in the authors’ abilities has been an invaluable source of motivation. This work would not have been possible without the diverse and meaningful assistance of those who contributed in various ways to its successful completion. To Mr. Joseph S. Callanta, RGC, RPm, who served as one of the authors’ research advisors and critically reviewed the authors’ research proposal. He provided valuable advices, unwavering encouragement and commitment to assisting the authors in developing and finalizing the manuscript, which significantly contributed to the successful completion of this study. To Ms. Riella Mar S. Agapito, RPm, research advisor, for her invaluable guidance and support throughout this research. To Ms. Allyssa G. Castronuevo, RPm, technical critic, for her meticulous review and invaluable feedback, which significantly enhanced the technical quality and overall integrity of this research. To Mr. Bryan A. Rebancos, RPm, for providing comprehensive statistical guidance. To those estudyanteng nakikitira, the respondents of this study, for their wholehearted participation. To all of the authors’ families, fur babies (Winterelli, Oreo, Buddy, Hugo), friends, and loved ones; for your unwavering support and constant encouragement, thank you to all of you. Finally, and most of all, to the Almighty God, who is the source of all wisdom, strength, and love; thank You for guiding our steps and holding us in Your grace.
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Cite this article:
Yordan, C.J.R., Amular, Z.M.R., Lagmay, J.Y., Simangan, K.M.M., Verdadero, H.D., Callanta, J.S., Agapito, R.M.S. & Castronuevo, A.G. (2026). Utang na loob and psychological well-being of students living with host families. The Research Probe, 6(1), 250-270. https://doi.org/10.53378/trp.229
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