It's Not Always Rainbows and Butterflies, It's Compromise: How Filipino Male Barkadas Communicate Masculinity

Title: Celerio, P., & Panaligan, C. (2016). It’s Not Always Rainbows and Butterflies, It’s Compromise: How Filipino Male Barkadas Communicate Masculinity. Unpublished Undergraduate Thesis, University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication

Abstract: This thesis explores the interactions and communication practices of Filipino males (aged 14 to 19) belonging to barkadas from all-boys and coeducational high schools when discussing their notions and opinions about masculinity. In exploring how these barkadas communicate with each other about being a man and what it means to be one, the researchers used Interaction Process Analysis Theory and Symbolic Interpretive Theory to identify and examine the different interactions present when barkada members discuss their notions and beliefs about masculinity. To be specific, they identified cool as ‘angas’ and ‘astig’; were watchmen of each other; negotiated membership and leadership; helped each other survive; and defined gentlemanly ideals. In general, three environments/contexts emerged: One For All, All For One, Strength In Numbers, and Only There When It’s Convenient. Results indicate that communication of masculinity is not deliberate; instead, masculinity becomes a barkada’s shared idea when it is validated through the members’ lived experiences. Moreover, notions of masculinity are communicated through humor, which subtly tones down dissenting opinions.

Keywords: Barkadas, Masculinity, Peer Group Communication

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