MODULE 1: THE CONCEPT OF VIRTUES  Self-Direction: Independent thought and

AND VALUES action; creativity and freedom of choice.

 Stimulation: Excitement, novelty, and
Virtue and Value Definition challenge in life.
Values are the fundamental principles that guide  Hedonism: Pleasure or sensuous
our choices and actions. They are the compass gratification for oneself.
that shapes our decisions, interactions, and  Achievement: Personal success through
aspirations. Ex. Respect, Loyalty, Friendship, demonstrating competence according to
Spirituality , Love for Family, Love, Patience, Trust, social standards.
Commitment  Power: Social status, prestige, control, or
Virtues, on the other hand, are the moral dominance over people and resources.
qualities and character traits that reflect our  Security: Safety, harmony, and stability of
highest potential. Ex. Integrity, Honesty, Justice, society, relationships, and self.
Kindness, Loyalty, Fairness, and Prudence  Conformity: Restraint of actions,
inclinations, and impulses that could
Personal Values and Its Categories upset or harm others and violate social
Personal values are a set of beliefs that norms.
differentiate between “good” and “bad” in your  Tradition: Respect, commitment, and
community, culture, or society. They can be acceptance of the customs and ideas that
categorized in many ways, including by their traditional culture or religion provide.
qualities, such as:  Benevolence: Preserving and enhancing
 Individual vs. Social the welfare of people with whom one is in
 Natural vs. Artificial frequent personal contact.
 Physical vs. Mental  Universalism: Understanding,
 Instrumental vs. Intrinsic appreciation, tolerance, and protection for
 Temporary vs. Permanent the welfare of all people and for nature.
 Exclusive vs. Universal
Stephen Hayes, the founder of Acceptance and Values Education
Commitment Therapy. He describes the values as  is the process of teaching and learning
“desired life consequences”. about the ideals that a society deems
important. It focuses on instilling moral,
How Personal Values formed? ethical, and social values in individuals,
- Parents/Primary caregiver guiding them in understanding what is
- Siblings and other close family members right and wrong, and encouraging them to
- Teachers and other authority figures act in ways that are beneficial to
- Friends/Community themselves and others. The aim of values
- Religion/Spirituality education is to shape the character and
- Cultural Expectations behavior of individuals, helping them
become responsible, empathetic, and
Shalom Schwartz has defined a set of ten
engaged members of society.
universal human values that can also be seen
as basic needs, underlying and driving much of
what we do.

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 What is Personal Development?
Characteristics of Values Education o Personal development is the
1. Personal Development & Self-Reflection continuous process of improving
 Personal development is the oneself in various areas of life,
lifelong process of improving one's such as emotional well-being,
skills, knowledge, character, and skills, knowledge, character, and
potential in various aspects of life. potential. It involves setting
 Self-reflection is the process of personal goals and working
introspectively examining one’s toward becoming a better version
thoughts, feelings, actions, and of oneself through self-awareness,
experiences. It involves taking the self-improvement, and learning.
time to evaluate personal Personal development aims to
behaviors and decisions in order to enhance one’s quality of life,
gain deeper insights into oneself. achieve aspirations, and realize full
2. Cultivation of Empathy and Respect for potential by focusing on areas like
Others’ Viewpoints emotional intelligence,
 The cultivation of empathy and communication, relationships,
respect for others' viewpoints health, and career growth.
refers to the intentional process of
The five (5) examples of Personal Development
developing the ability to
Goals
understand and share the feelings,
perspectives, and experiences of 1. Planning – Developing effective
others. It involves recognizing and strategies and systems to organize tasks,
valuing the diverse opinions, manage time, and achieve objectives.
beliefs, and backgrounds of 2. Goals – Set SMART goals (Specific,
individuals, even when they differ Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-
from one's own. bound).
Bible Verses about Values 3. Motivation – Cultivating internal drive
Proverbs 22:6 and enthusiasm to pursue and accomplish
"Start children off on the way they should personal or professional objectives.
go, and even when they are old, they will 4. Confidence – Building self-assurance and
not turn from it." belief in one’s abilities and decisions.
Philippians 2:3 5. Life Strategy – Creating a comprehensive
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain plan that outlines long-term personal and
conceit. Rather, in humility value others professional goals and the steps to
above yourselves." achieve them.
Matthew 7:12
Benefits of Personal Development Goals for
"So, in everything, do to others what you
Work
would have them do to you."
Galatians 5:22-23  Clear Sense of Direction
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy,  Improved Work Ethic
peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness,  Better Workplace Relationships
faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control."  Increased Productivity
Personal Development Goals  What is Stress?
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 - Stress is a physical, emotional, or mental to be you. Self is created out of thoughts,
response to perceived challenges, threats, ideas and beliefs about who you are, your
or demands. It arises when an individual personality, your characteristics, your
history and your hopes and dreams for
feels that they cannot cope with the
the future. This self also describes your
demands placed upon them. Stress can motivations and desires.
affect overall well-being and manifest
through various symptoms, such as SELF
anxiety, tension, irritability, or physical - the concept of the "Self" refers to the
issues like headaches and fatigue. understanding and development of an
individual's identity, character, and
personal values. It encourages students to
Stress Relieving Techniques
reflect on their own beliefs, actions, and
1. Meditation – Meditation helps reduce feelings. By exploring the "Self," students
stress by promoting relaxation and gain self-awareness, which is a crucial
mental clarity. It allows individuals to step in shaping ethical behavior, decision-
focus their attention away from stressors making, and interactions with others.
and fosters a calm state of mind, which
HEREDITARY
can decrease anxiety and improve
- Genetic inheritance which provides basic
emotional well-being. potentialities for development and
2. Physical Exercise – Physical exercise behavior. Includes not only physical
alleviates stress by releasing endorphins, structure but also man’s striving, thinking,
which are natural mood lifters. It also feeling, acting and patterns of growth and
helps reduce levels of the stress hormone change throughout a predictable life cycle.
cortisol, improves sleep, and boosts
ENVIRONMENT
overall mood, contributing to a more
- Man’s physical and socio- cultural
resilient response to stress. environment heavily influences the extent
3. Maintaining a Balanced Lifestyle – A to which genetic potential is realized.
balanced lifestyle helps manage stress by Socio-cultural inheritance (product of
ensuring that various aspects of life— social evolution).
such as work, rest, social interactions, and
self-care—are in harmony. This balance THE SELF
- Concept necessary for explaining many
prevents burnout and excessive strain,
aspects of our perception, feeling,
promoting better overall health and a thinking and behavior, cannot be
more manageable response to stress. observed directly but is inferred from
various behavior that can be viewed as a
MODULE 2: THE SELF AND ITS complex psychological process which has
developmental course influenced by
DEVELOPMENT
learning and subject to change.
The Significance of the Self
Man tries to search for meaning like “Who
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SELF
am I? Why I am here? What is the purpose of my
- Your sense of self refers to your
existence?”
perception of the collection of
characteristics that define you.
NATURE OF THE SELF
Personality traits, abilities, likes and
- A natural self is metaphysically dependent
dislikes, your belief system or moral code,
on the body, is a mental construct. Sort of
and the things that motivate you. The
like an imaginary friend, only it happens
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 "Self" has various characteristics that striving to act in ways that reflect that
contribute to an individual's identity, ideal.
behavior, and sense of being. These 4. Self-respect
characteristics can be categorized into - Definition: A positive regard for oneself,
several dimensions, such as psychological, recognizing one’s intrinsic worth and
social, and moral aspects. maintaining dignity in thoughts, words,
1. Self-direction and actions.
- Definition: The ability to set personal - In Values Education: Self-respect is
goals, make decisions independently, and foundational to developing a healthy self-
take responsibility for one's own actions. image and treating oneself with kindness
- In Values Education: Self-direction and care. It also influences how one
encourages individuals to take charge of expects to be treated by others,
their lives based on personal values and promoting dignity and mutual respect in
aspirations. It promotes autonomy, relationships.
responsibility, and proactive behavior in - Example: A student refusing to engage in
achieving ethical and meaningful life harmful behaviors or situations because
goals. they value themselves and understand
- Example: A student setting a personal their worth.
goal to study regularly and follow through 5. Self-confidence
with a study plan without external - Definition: Trust in one's abilities,
pressure. decisions, and overall worth, which allows
2. Self-evaluation for assertive and positive action.
- Definition: The process of assessing one's - In Values Education: Self-confidence
own behavior, achievements, and enables individuals to act on their values
attitudes, often in comparison to personal and beliefs without fear of judgment or
goals or values. failure. It fosters resilience and the
- In Values Education: Self-evaluation courage to stand up for what is right, even
involves reflecting on how well one’s in challenging situations.
actions align with their values and areas - Example: A student confidently
where improvement is needed. It expressing their opinion in a classroom
encourages continuous self-improvement debate, trusting in their knowledge and
and ethical decision-making. ability to contribute meaningfully.
- Example: A student reflecting on their
behavior after a conflict to evaluate PERSONAL GROWTH
whether they acted in accordance with 1. The Self is a Process, Not an Entity
principles of respect and kindness. - Think of the self as something that is
3. Self-ideal always changing and growing. It's not a
- Definition: The vision of the person one fixed object, but more like a journey or a
aspires to be, based on personal values, process of learning and adapting.
morals, and desired characteristics. 2. The Self is Reflexive
- In Values Education: The self-ideal serves - This means we can look at ourselves and
as a guide for personal growth and ethical think about our own thoughts, feelings,
development. It helps individuals define and actions.
who they want to become, encouraging - Example: When you ask yourself, "Why
them to strive towards their highest did I get so upset?" and then realize it’s
potential in both character and actions. because of something from your past, you
- Example: A student who aspires to be are reflecting on your behavior.
compassionate and responsible may
model their behavior on those values, 3. The Self is Made Up of Attitudes

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 - This is how we see ourselves—our a) Key Question: "Is it okay for me to do
abilities, behaviors, and what makes us things?"
unique. It’s our self-view. b) Conflict: Children start to initiate
- Example: "I’m good at sports, but I activities and make decisions. If
struggle with math" is part of how you see discouraged, they feel guilty about their
yourself. actions.
4. The Self Turns Social Rules into Self- c) Virtue: Purpose
Control 4. Industry vs. Inferiority (School Age, 6-
- We internalize social rules and make them 12 years)
our own. This helps us control ourselves. a) Key Question: "Can I make it in the world
- Example: You want to watch TV but know of people and things?"
you should clean the house. Or, you want b) Conflict: Children develop a sense of
to buy clothes but remind yourself that competence by mastering new skills.
you need to save money. This is your self- Failure to do so leads to feelings of
keeping you in control. inferiority.
c) Virtue: Competence
THE DIFFERENCE IN “SELF-ESTEEM” AND 5. Identity vs. Role Confusion
“SELF-CONFIDENCE” (Adolescence, 12-18 years)
- Self-esteem is about how you feel about a) Key Question: "Who am I, and what can I
yourself as a person. be?"
- Self-confidence is about how much you b) Conflict: Adolescents explore their
believe in your abilities in specific areas. identity, values, and goals. Success leads
to a strong sense of self, while failure
Erik Erikson's theory of personality results in role confusion.
development, known as Erikson's Psychosocial c) Virtue: Fidelity
Stages, involves eight stages, each characterized 6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young
by a central conflict or "crisis" that individuals Adulthood, 18-40 years)
must resolve to develop a healthy personality. a) Key Question: "Can I love and be loved?"
Successfully resolving these conflicts leads to b) Conflict: Young adults seek close
virtues or strengths that help in navigating later relationships. Failing to establish intimacy
stages of life. can lead to loneliness and isolation.
c) Virtue: Love
1. Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy, 0-1 year) 7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle
a) Key Question: "Can I trust the world?" Adulthood, 40-65 years)
b) Conflict: Infants learn to trust caregivers if a) Key Question: "Can I make my life count?"
their needs (food, comfort) are met b) Conflict: Adults focus on contributing to
consistently. Failure leads to mistrust. society (e.g., through work, family).
c) Virtue: Hope Success leads to feelings of productivity,
2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (Early while failure results in stagnation.
Childhood, 1-3 years) c) Virtue: Care
a) Key Question: "Can I do things on my own, 8. Integrity vs. Despair (Late Adulthood,
or must I rely on others?" 65+ years)
b) Conflict: Toddlers learn independence a) Key Question: "Is it okay to have been
(e.g., walking, dressing). Over-criticism or me?"
over-control leads to feelings of shame b) Conflict: Older adults reflect on their lives.
and doubt. If they feel fulfilled, they develop a sense
c) Virtue: Will of integrity. If not, they may experience
3. Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool, 3-6 despair over missed opportunities.
years) c) Virtue: Wisdom

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WILLIAM JAMES 3. Erving Goffman’s Dramaturgy
- according to William James self is united  Core Idea: Life is like a stage, and
to our feelings and attitudes along with individuals perform roles depending on
the principle of causality. What do we the social context.
mean by the principle of causality? The  Front Stage: Where we perform roles in
principle of causality states that the cause front of others and follow social scripts
always has effects or that all real events (e.g., being polite at work).
necessarily have a cost.  Back Stage: Where we relax and be
SOCIOLOGICAL THEORIES OF SELF- ourselves without the pressures of social
DEVELOPMENT performance (e.g., at home with close
1. Charles Horton Cooley’s “Looking- friends).
Glass Self”  Impression Management: We control how
 Core Idea: The self is developed through others perceive us by managing our
social interactions and how we believe behavior.
others see us.  Example: A server in a restaurant may act
 Process: cheerful and polite (front stage), even if
- We imagine how we appear to others. they feel tired, to create a positive
- We interpret their reactions to us. impression.
- We develop a self-concept based on how 4. Sigmund Freud’s Theory of Self
we think others see us. (Psychoanalytic Approach)
 Example: A student may feel smart if  Core Idea: The self is influenced by
others praise their academic unconscious desires and the interaction
performance, thus internalizing a self- between three parts of the personality.
image of intelligence.  Id: The primal, unconscious desires for
2. George Herbert Mead’s Theory of the pleasure.
“Social Self”  Ego: The rational, conscious part that
 Core Idea: The self develops through balances the id and superego.
social experiences and the ability to take  Superego: The moral conscience shaped
the role of others. by societal norms and values.
 Stages of Development:  Example: The ego helps a person resist
- Preparatory Stage (infancy): Children the urge (id) to eat someone else’s food
imitate others without understanding. because their superego reminds them it’s
- Play Stage (early childhood): Children wrong.
begin to take on roles of specific others 5. Jean Piaget’s Stages of Cognitive
(e.g., playing "parent" or "teacher"). Development
- Game Stage (later childhood): Children  Core Idea: Self-development is tied to
understand and play organized games cognitive growth and understanding of
with multiple roles, developing the ability the world, based on four stages.
to see themselves from the perspective of  Sensorimotor Stage (0-2 years): Infants
the "generalized other" (society’s learn about the world through sensory
expectations). experiences.
- “I” and “Me”:  Preoperational Stage (2-7 years):
 “I” is the spontaneous, active part of Children start using language and
the self. symbols but struggle with logic.
 “Me” is the socialized aspect, reflecting  Concrete Operational Stage (7-11 years):
society’s expectations. Children develop logical thinking but are
 Example: A child playing house learns still tied to concrete experiences.
what it means to be a parent, which  Formal Operational Stage (12+ years):
influences their understanding of Abstract thinking and problem-solving
societal roles. emerge.

6
 Example: A child in the preoperational Key Idea: Caring for others and maintaining
stage might struggle to understand that a relationships.
taller glass doesn’t always hold more People start thinking about others’ feelings
liquid than a shorter one. and follow social rules to keep harmony.
Example: "I’ll help my friend because it’s
important to be kind and supportive."
6. Lawrence Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral  Postconventional Level
Development Key Idea: Balancing justice and care.
 Core Idea: Self-development includes the People think about fairness, empathy, and
evolution of moral reasoning through how their actions affect others and society.
three levels: Example: "I’ll stand up for what’s right, even
o Pre-conventional: Decisions are if it’s hard, because I care about justice and
based on avoiding punishment and the well-being of others."
seeking rewards. Key Difference from Kohlberg:
o Conventional: Decisions are made Gilligan: Women focus on care and relationships.
according to societal rules and the Kohlberg: Men focus on justice and rules.
desire to uphold laws and social
approval. PLURAL PARTICIPATION OF THE SELF
o Post-conventional: Individuals 1. Social Distance
base decisions on abstract What It Is: How close or far away people feel
principles and personal ethics. from each other in social relationships.
 Example: A teenager in the post- Easy Way to Remember: It measures how
conventional stage may choose to disobey intimate or distant people are with one
a law they believe is unjust, prioritizing another.
personal ethics over societal rules. Example: You might feel close to your family
7. Lev Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory but distant from a coworker you don’t know
 Core Idea: Cognitive development and well.
self-development occur through social 2. Identification
interaction, particularly with more What It Is: When you adopt and integrate the
knowledgeable others (e.g., parents, beliefs, values, and habits of a group into your
teachers). own identity.
 Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD): Easy Way to Remember: You take on the
The gap between what a learner can do group’s way of thinking and behaving.
alone and what they can achieve with Example: When you join a club and start to
guidance. act and think like other members, you are
 Example: A child learning to tie their identifying with that group.
shoes with the help of a parent eventually 3. Assimilation
develops the ability to do it What It Is: The final stage where different
independently. cultural elements merge into one cohesive
8. Carol Gilligan's Stages of Moral culture.
Development (Focus on Ethics of Care): Easy Way to Remember: It’s when cultures
 Preconventional Level blend together completely.
Key Idea: Self-interest and avoiding Example: When different cultural practices
punishment. mix and form a new, combined way of life.
People make choices based on what benefits
them or keeps them out of trouble. “PERCEIVING AND EXPERIENCING”
Example: "I won’t cheat because I don’t want - perceiving is the act of understanding,
to get caught." realizing, seeing, noticing, or becoming
 Conventional Level aware of experiencing Life experiences are
defined through relationships, meaningful

7
 activities, and self-understanding. Many psychologists and social philosophers
emphasize that a profound need today is to have
ADJUSTMENT AND ENHANCEMENT a true and deep love of oneself—this means
1. Self-defense is about protecting yourself having genuine self-acceptance and authentic
from harm or danger. This could mean self-esteem, leading to a joyful and celebratory
learning physical techniques to defend internal state. It's about feeling good and being
against attacks or taking precautions to content with who you are. Example: Saying, "It's
ensure your safety. good to be me. I am very happy with who I am,"
Self-enhancement is about improving reflects this authentic self-acceptance and joy.
yourself and growing as a person. This Benefits of Authentic Self-Esteem:
includes activities like getting fit, - Increased Autonomy: Greater
developing emotional intelligence, and independence and freedom in making
continuously learning to better yourself choices aligned with your true self.
and your well-being. - More Adequate Assumptions: Better
2. Psychological repression is when understanding and realistic beliefs about
someone unconsciously pushes away yourself and your abilities.
distressing thoughts or memories to avoid - Improved Competencies: Enhanced skills
emotional pain. For example, if someone and abilities as you grow and develop
went through a tough breakup, they might from a place of self-acceptance.
not consciously remember the details of - Increased Awareness and Openness to
the relationship, but they could still feel Experience: Greater openness to new
anxious or sad without knowing why. This experiences and self-awareness as you
is because the emotions associated with embrace and celebrate who you are.
the breakup are repressed, meaning they
are hidden from their awareness. LIFE CHANGING LESSONS YOU WILL LEARN
3. In psychology, fantasy refers to the use of ON YOUR JOURNEY TO SELF-IMPROVEMENT
imagination to create mental images or  Self-Awareness is Key: Understanding
scenarios that express desires or wishes. your strengths, weaknesses, and what
These fantasies often involve situations drives you helps guide your personal
that are highly unlikely or impossible in growth. It allows you to make more
real life. They are vivid and can be a way informed decisions and improve your
for individuals to explore their desires, interactions with others.
fears, or creative ideas in their minds.  Growth Takes Time: Personal
4. Compensation refers to a strategy where development is a gradual process.
individuals make up for perceived Progress often comes in small,
deficiencies or shortcomings by focusing incremental steps, so patience and
on their strengths or achieving success in persistence are crucial.
other areas. This concept helps people  Embrace Failure as a Learning
build self-esteem and maintain a positive Opportunity: Mistakes and setbacks are
self-image, even when they face part of the growth process. Viewing them
difficulties or limitations in certain as learning experiences rather than
aspects of their lives. failures can help you develop resilience
SELF-ESTEEM AND PLEASURE and a growth mindset.
Pleasure is seen as a positive outcome and  Self-Care is Not Selfish: Taking time to
reward for successful actions, while pain care for your physical, emotional, and
represents failure and negative outcomes. mental health is essential. It boosts your
Essentially, pleasure accompanies achievements overall well-being and equips you to
and growth, and pain signifies setbacks. handle challenges more effectively.
AUTHENTICITY AND BECOMING  Positive Habits Lead to Lasting Change:
Building and maintaining positive habits

8
 creates a strong foundation for long-term SIGMUND FREUD’S THEORIES
improvement. Consistency in these habits 1. Psychoanalytic Perspective
can lead to significant, lasting growth. Key Focus: The unconscious mind and early
childhood experiences.
Sigmund Freud's theory of psychosexual Explanation: This perspective was introduced
development outlines five stages that he believed by Sigmund Freud. It emphasizes that much
are crucial in shaping personality. Each stage is of our behavior is driven by unconscious
centered around a different erogenous zone and thoughts, feelings, and memories that we
involves specific conflicts that need to be might not be aware of. It also focuses heavily
resolved for healthy psychological development. on how our early childhood experiences
1. Oral Stage (0-1 year) (especially with caregivers) shape our adult
Focus: Pleasure centers around the mouth personalities. Freud believed that conflicts
(sucking, biting). during childhood lead to personality traits or
Conflict: Weaning off breast or bottle feeding. problems later in life.
Possible Issues: Fixation can lead to issues Example: If someone had a difficult childhood
such as oral dependence (e.g., smoking, or unresolved issues, those issues might
overeating) or aggression. show up in their adult relationships, even if
2. Anal Stage (1-3 years) they’re not fully aware of the connection.
Focus: Pleasure centers around control of 2. Humanistic Perspective
bowel and bladder functions. Key Focus: Personal growth, self-fulfillment,
Conflict: Toilet training. and the potential for good.
Possible Issues: Fixation can lead to anal- Explanation: This approach is associated with
retentive (orderly, rigid) or anal-expulsive thinkers like Carl Rogers and Abraham
(messy, disorganized) traits. Maslow. It sees humans as inherently good
3. Phallic Stage (3-6 years) and motivated by a desire to grow and reach
Focus: Pleasure centers around the genitalia. their full potential. The focus is on the self—
Conflict: Oedipus complex (for boys) and how individuals perceive themselves and
Electra complex (for girls)—a child's feelings their ability to achieve happiness. The idea of
of desire for the opposite-sex parent and self-actualization (becoming the best version
jealousy toward the same-sex parent. of yourself) is central to this view.
Possible Issues: Fixation can lead to Example: If you’re pursuing goals that make
difficulties in relationships or sexual identity. you feel fulfilled, like a passion for art or
4. Latency Stage (6-puberty) helping others, you're tapping into your
Focus: Sexual feelings are dormant; focus humanistic side.
shifts to developing skills, hobbies, and 3. Social Cognitive Perspective
relationships with peers. Key Focus: The role of thoughts and social
Conflict: This stage is more about learning learning in shaping personality.
and growth rather than resolving a specific Explanation: This perspective, highlighted by
conflict. Albert Bandura, emphasizes the interaction
Possible Issues: Problems in this stage can between your thoughts (cognition) and your
affect self-confidence and social skills. social environment. It’s about how you think
5. Genital Stage (puberty-adulthood) about yourself and others and how those
Focus: Reawakening of sexual interests and thoughts guide your behavior. It also includes
establishment of mature sexual relationships. observational learning, meaning you can
Conflict: Balancing work, love, and learn by watching others and thinking about
relationships. their actions, rather than just through direct
Possible Issues: Difficulties in this stage can experiences.
lead to problems in forming healthy, adult Example: If you believe you are good at math,
relationships. you’re more likely to work hard and improve
in math. Similarly, if you see someone being

9
 rewarded for hard work, you might imitate HOW TO ATTAIN INDIVIDUALITY
that behavior.  Be true to yourself
4. Trait Perspective  Know exactly who you are
Key Focus: Describing and measuring  Make a list of the things you like
personality traits.  Mold your life around what you like
Explanation: This approach focuses on  Don't change yourself to society
personality traits, which are relatively stable  Be happy with yourself and what you like
characteristics (like introversion or and your personality is what makes you
extraversion) that make up who you are. an individual
Researchers use trait theories to measure
how much of certain traits people have. The UNDERSTANDING OUR INDIVIDUALITY
Big Five personality traits (openness,  Understanding our limitations and
conscientiousness, extraversion, working with them.
agreeableness, and neuroticism) are often  Being aware of our current individuality
used to describe people's differences.  Biggest Challenge
Example: If you are consistently organized,  See ourselves in the “present” light rather
dependable, and like planning things out, you than constantly perceiving ourselves from
probably score high in conscientiousness. some past image.
MODULE 3: THE DEFINITION OF  Spending time connecting with your inner
CHARACTER, INDIVIDUALITY, AND space
 The Practice of relaxed awareness
PERSONALITY
 The experience of limitation shapes your
Character
individuality.
Character refers to the set of moral and
ethical qualities that guide a person's
IMPORTANCE OF INDIVIDUALITY
behavior. It is developed through the
 Making yourself a good individual will
consistent practice of virtues such as honesty,
help you survive in the world, succeed,
integrity, kindness, and responsibility. In
and be recognized and understood
values education, character is emphasized as
 To be able to survive as an individual we
the foundation of moral development,
have to think for ourselves.
determining how a person behaves in various
 A good individuals can help a person to
situations.
succeed and make a change in this world.
Individuality
Individuality represents the unique
INDIVIDUALITY AND LEADERSHIP
combination of traits, experiences, and
 Individuality encourages self- reliance,
preferences that make a person distinct from
initiative, persistence and unique
others. It includes one’s thoughts, emotions, and
perceptions and visionary ideas.
personal preferences, shaped by their
 All these are very useful to leaders and
environment, upbringing, and personal
therefore it is not surprising that many
experiences.
leaders are highly individualistic.
Personality
Personality is the combination of
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
behaviors, emotions, and attitudes that make up
PERSONALITY AND CHARACTER:
an individual’s typical way of interacting with the
Dr. Tara M. Lally, who is the supervising
world. It includes traits like openness,
psychologist at the Department of Psychiatry at
extroversion, conscientiousness, and
Ocean University Medical Center, said...
neuroticism. Personality is often seen as a
“Character refers to the person’s moral and
product of both genetic factors and life
ethical qualities. It consists of beliefs and moral
experiences, evolving as a person grows and
principles that can guide their behavior in
learns.
discrete ways. Personality is the sum of a

10
person’s physical, psychological, emotional, and cooperative, and considerate, often going out of
social aspects that are manifested through their way to help others or avoid conflicts.
behavior and actions,” Neuroticism measures a person's emotional
stability and their tendency to experience
negative emotions like anxiety, sadness, and
anger. Example: Someone high in Neuroticism
might frequently feel worried or stressed and
may struggle to cope with life's challenges.
FACTORS OF CHARACTER TRAITS
ATTRIBUTE: 10 CHARACTER TRAITS THAT WORTH
ACRONYM: DEVELOPING
O – Openness 1. Honesty - A natural act and values that
C – Conscientiousness everyone should imitate. Based on the
E – Extraversion research being honest is of the most
A – Agreeableness mentionable trait that teachers should
N – Neuroticism have.
2. Loyalty - Loyalty helps us to act ethically
LEWIS GOLDBERG and strengthens the bond of the people
The model, known as the "Big Five," has garnered that surrounds us. Being consistent in
significant attention and has been extensively your treatment, behavior, and regard for
researched across various populations and another- being the person they can always
cultures. Today, it remains the most widely count on.
accepted theory of personality. 3. Openness To Experience - Creates more
The personality traits are Openness, fun and seek adventures experiences.
Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Create memories and satisfaction to us.
and Neuroticism. These five traits are considered 4. Flexibility - A character trait that helps
the most comprehensive and widely recognized you overcome obstacles in life. Being
in describing human personality. flexible can help you also gain
experiences.
Openness refers to an individual's imagination, 5. Compassion - Among emotion
creativity, and willingness to embrace new researchers, it is defined as the feeling
experiences. Example: Someone with high that arises when you are confronted with
Openness might enjoy exploring different another’s suffering and feel motivated to
cultures, trying out new hobbies, or engaging in relieve that suffering.
abstract thinking. 6. Patience - Patience is your ability to wait
Conscientiousness reflects a person's without becoming annoyed, upset, or
organization, responsibility, and dependability. angry. We develop a profound
Example: Someone high in Conscientiousness is understanding that some things take
likely to plan ahead, meet deadlines, and be time.
reliable in fulfilling commitments. 7. Responsibility - One of the most
Extraversion describes a person's social important aspects of our life, and a first
behavior, assertiveness, and outgoing nature. step to building a positive personality. it
Example: Someone high in Extraversion might means that a person is able to take on
enjoy attending social gatherings, taking the lead some duties and to face certain
in group activities, and feeling energized by consequences of the action that may
interacting with others. occur.
Agreeableness measures a person's ability to 8. Respect - Is a sign of value for the worth
get along with others, their empathy, and their of people and your ability to accept the
concern for others. For example, someone high in inherit flaws we all possess. Respect
Agreeableness is likely to be compassionate,

11
 doesn’t have to come naturally- it is o Demonstrating respect and
something you learn. compassion in interactions with
9. Calmness - Staying calm allows you to others.
think logically and take decisions
accordingly. clarity of mind is extremely MODULE 4: PERSONALITY: THE
important when you are dealing with
WORKER AND YOUR PROFESSION
problems.
10. Confidence - Being confident help us
PERSONALITY OF A WORKER
move forward to discover and develop
- There are certain key qualities that every
our capabilities. You know your strengths
and weakness well. hiring manager should look out for.
Business owners often focus on technical
CHARACTER QUALITIES AND CHARACTER skills alone and don't assess the qualities
BUILDING and characteristics of the ideal employee.
Character qualities, also known as virtues, are
SKILLS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD
positive traits or moral attributes that guide
WORKER
individuals in making ethical decisions and
behaving in a socially responsible way. These - Soft skills include the social expertise,
qualities are often the foundation of one’s moral personality, communication skills,
character and influence how a person interacts emotional intelligence, influence, and
with others and faces life’s challenges. Example:
approach to work that an employee
- Perseverance – Demonstrating
shows. Hard skills are those abilities that
persistence and determination to
overcome obstacles and challenges. have been learned and can be measured
- Courage – The ability to face fear, pain, or and quantified. They can make an
adversity with confidence and bravery. employee more of an asset to a company.
- Humility – Having a modest view of one’s TOP SKILLS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF A
importance and being open to learning GOOD EMPLOYEE:
from others. Knowing the why, as well as the what.
Honesty and integrity.
Character building refers to the process of Problem-solving abilities.
developing and strengthening these moral Ambitious.
qualities through education, experiences, and Conflict resolution
reflection. It is a lifelong endeavor that begins in Teamwork.
childhood and continues through all stages of Willingness to learn.
life. Example:
Education and Reflection: COMPONENTS OF PERSONALITY
 Values education teaches the importance
Physical - This includes the mode of dressing,
of virtues through lessons, stories, and manner of walking, posture, body build, health
reflections on ethical dilemmas. complexion and facial expression.
 Schools and families play a key role in
Intellectual - How a person talks and what she
instilling values by providing examples of talks about is what matters in the intellectual
good character through role models. component of personality.
Practical Application: Social - Good manners, correct manners are
 It’s not enough to learn about character;
included in this aspect of personality. To do the
individuals need to apply these qualities
right thing at the right time, to act in the proper
in real-life situations. This might involve:
o Taking responsibility for mistakes. manner, to get along well with others.
o Being honest even when it’s Emotional - This component includes a person's
difficult. like or dislikes, whether you are outgoing or shy,

12
whether you are calm or nervous, and whether 4. Utilizing Feedback: Seeking and
you loses your temper easily or keeps your cool. reflecting on feedback from friends,
family, or colleagues can provide valuable
COMPONENTS OF PERSONALITY insights into how others perceive you.
1. Values System (Character)
- This includes a person’s attitudes, values, THE SIX MAJOR DEPOSITS FOR A BETTER
beliefs and philosophy in life. LIFE.
1. Understanding The Individuals -
Personality Differences Deposits requires the leader to always
Our Heredity – We are born with a set of genes accept the Value of what the order person
and chromosomes which we inherit from our says/does.
forefathers and our parents. These set of limits 2. Attending The Little Things - In a
to our potential. Relationship, the little things are the big
Our Environment – This consists of your family, things.
school church, social groups, and other groups 3. Keeping Commitment - A promise is
with whom we interact from the very beginning. major deposit, breaking one is a major
Each group puts pressure on us and we behave withdrawal .
in certain ways as result of being with these 4. Clarifying Expectation - Conflicting or
groups. ambiguous expectations are a major
cause of relationship difficulties.
2. Our Experiences 5. Showing Personal Integrity - Being
- These consists of everything we do or get honest and loyal to those who are not
touch with, everywhere we got, in short, present.
everything that we are exposed to on our 6. Apologize Sincerely - Unconditional and
life, whether physical, emotional, or social authentic care, love and empathy
experiences. encourage people to cooperate,
contribute, and live to the best of them.
PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT
 Be Confident. MODULE 5: VALUE SKILLS AND
 Be Yourself. DEVELOPMENT
 Bring Positivity in your outlook. Value - These are individual beliefs that motivate
 Know Yourself. people to act one way or another. They serve as a
guide for human behavior. Generally, people are
HOW TO DEVELOP YOUR PERSONALITY? predisposed to adopt the values they were raised
1. Self-Assessment: Personality with. People also tend to believe those values are
Development begins with an honest “right” because they are the values of their
evaluation of strengths, weaknesses, particular culture.
interests, and values. Recognizing these Skills - A unique ability or technique to acquire
aspects helps in setting realistic and special training in either an intellectual or
aligned goals. physical area. Skills can include listening,
2. Goals And Aspirations: Recognizing communicating, organization, design, and
what you want to achieve and setting programming. Skills allow individuals to select
clear, attainable goals can guide your the most appropriate behavior or action to suit
personal and professional development task requirements.
journey. Development – It is a process that creates
3. Physical And Mental Health growth, progress, positive change, or the
Awareness: Recognizing your physical addition of physical, economic, environmental,
and mental needs and maintaining a social, and demographic components.
healthy balance contributes to overall
well-being. SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AND VALUES
13
Civics and Culture provide for the development - Take courses to learn another language, a
of social skills among the pupils. new software program, or how to write
1. Decision Making creatively. Consider watching a webinar
Decision making is a skill that can be developed on professional development topics such
early enough as entrepreneurship or social media
among the pupils so that they are prepared to marketing.
make serious decisions when time come. 3. Be Curious
2. Coping with Crisis - By interacting with many people, you can
There are many crisis which affect even the learn new ideas and understand how to
children and innocence makes them victim of communicate and work with different
these crisis. Some potential experiences can be personality types. You can also meet
prepared for at least to a degree by using a people and develop relationships that
technique called crisis proofing. Schickedanz, et. might help you.
Al (Schickedanz : 1990) This skill is developed by 4. Reflect
exposing the children to various situations - The only way to build upon your personal
involving skills is to become self-aware, and one of
decision-making at home, among friends, and in the best ways to do this is to reflect at the
the community. Crisis proofing seeks to arm the end of each day. Make notes on
child against a crisis by providing observations, recent events, decisions and
a mild, diluted form of experience before a conversations to make you identify your
serious crisis occurs. strengths, limitations, and opportunities
3. Socializing for progression.
Civics and Culture are pas over tools in values 5. Find a Mentor
formation among children. As they study the way - If you need a little direction, don’t be
of life in their own local environment and those afraid to ask someone you trust to
of others, they necessarily become exposed to provide some helpful tips on building
the values and value system of people. The your self-development skills. This
socialization skills enables the pupils to relate individual could be a manager, professor,
with the people around them, participate better someone you admire, or a professional
in activities requiring group effort. The content personal growth mentor, but it’s
and the processes involved in studying the way important to be honest with yourself and
of life of the people provide the pupils with be open for feedback.
opportunities for the formation of individual and
group values. CLASSIFICATION OF VALUES
MORAL VALUES – Moral values are defined as
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR PERSONAL guidelines that assist a person in deciding
DEVELOPMENT SKILLS between right and wrong.
1. Face you fears SOCIAL VALUES – Social values are a set of
- Fear can prevent you from growing and principles that are morally acceptable by society.
progressing. If you are afraid of public These principles are created by the
speaking, take a class or join a group that dynamics of the community, institutions in the
helps people become better public society, traditions, and cultural beliefs of the
speakers. If you fear taking risks, find a people in the society.
mentor to help you make good decisions PERSONAL VALUES – Personal Values are
and build confidence. "broad desirable goals that motivate people's
- Confront your fears head on and actions and serve as guiding principles in their
remember that all fears are learned and lives". Everyone has values, but each person has
with self-discipline you can turn things a different
around. value set.
2. Learn something new

14
CULTURAL VALUES – Cultural values are a series and bad, fair and unfair. It's about figuring out
of principles and values passed on generation how we should behave
after generation by our ancestors. Those ideas and what kind of people we should strive to be.
decide how a person of that culture will behave
and how they will lead their lives. TYPE OF ETHICS
INSTRUMENTAL VALUES – Instrumental values NORMATIVE ETHICS – Normative ethics is the
are modes of behavior in achieving the terminal branch of ethics that deals with establishing how
values. these values show ways an individual people ought to act and which moral
would follow to achieve the aims in his life. standards should guide their behavior. It aims to
INTRINSIC VALUES – Intrinsic value refers to the create general principles that can be used to
interest and enjoyment that students experience determine what is morally right or wrong, good
when engaging in an activity. or bad.
 Deontological Ethics - This says we
 Values are different for each person. should follow rules or do our duty, no
These can be defined as ideas or beliefs matter what happens. For example, if the
that a person holds desirable or rule is "don’t lie, " you shouldn’t lie, even if
undesirable. The variability in that telling the truth causes problems.
statement is, first, what a person could  Consequentialism - This focuses on the
value, and second, the degree to which results of our actions. An action is good if
they value it. it leads to good outcomes. For example, if
 Values may be specific, such as honoring helping someone makes many people
one's parents or owning a home or they happy, then it’s the right thing to do.
may be more general, such as health, love,  Virtue Ethics - This is about being a good
and democracy. Examples of General person with good habits, like being kind,
Values : "Truth prevails", "love thy honest, or brave. It focuses on who you
neighbor as yourself, "learning is good as are as a person rather than just following
ends itself. rules or looking at outcomes.
META-ETHICS – Meta-ethics is a branch of ethics
These are the characteristics of values: that doesn’t focus on deciding what actions are
- These are extremely practical, and right or wrong, but rather on understanding the
valuation requires techniques and an nature of ethical judgments themselves. It asks
understanding of the strategic context. deeper questions about what morality is, what
- These can provide standards of moral language means, and how we can know
competence and morality. what is morally true or false. Think of meta-
- These can go beyond specific situations or ethics as the "philosophy of ethics"— it’s more
persons. concerned with analyzing the foundations of
- Personal values can be influenced by ethical thought than with specific moral rules or
culture, tradition, and a combination of actions.
internal and external factors. APPLIED ETHICS – Applied ethics is the branch
- These are relatively permanent. of ethics that focuses on how ethical principles
- These are more central to the core of a and theories are used to solve real-world moral
person. issues and dilemmas. It involves taking ethical
concepts from fields like normative ethics and
MODULE 6: ETHICS AND applying them to specific areas such as medicine,
business, law, the environment, and more. Looks
ORGANIZATION at what a person is obligate (or permitted) to do
ETHICS - It derived from the ancient Greek word
in a specific situation or a particular domain of
“ETHOS” which means custom and habits. Ethics
action.
is a branch of philosophy that deals with
questions about what is right and wrong, good
IMPORTANCE OF ETHICS
15
 1. Acts as a Guide Map – Other subfields of applied ethics in relation to
 Direction in Decision-Making organizational ethics
 Consistency in Actions 1. BUSINESS ETHICS
2. Acts as Values and Creates Integrity - Refers to the standard for morally right
 Foundation of Core Values Building and wrong conduct in business.
Integrity - Is generally used to describe a code of
3. Acts as Our Medium of Feelings for Others conduct that the person or business
 Empathy and Compassion follows.
 Promoting Kindness and Fairness 2. EDUCATION ETHICS
ORGANIZATION - Deals with ethical problems and
- An organization is a group of people who dilemmas specific to the complexities of
come together to achieve a common goal education.
or purpose. It can take many forms, such - It is helping to clarify and make ethical
as a business, non-profit, government recommendations for their educational
agency, or social club. Organizations have resolution.
a structured system with roles, 3. MILITARY ETHICS
responsibilities, and processes that guide - Focused on the core values and moral
how members work together to reach principles that collectively govern the
their objectives. men and women in the military forces
ETHICS IN ORGANIZATION of nation around the world.
- Are guidelines and principles that decides ETHICAL BEHAVIORS IN THE WORKPLACE
the way individuals should behave at their - OBEY THEY RULES AND REGULATION
workplace. It covers various aspects, - COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY
including: - DEVELOP PROFESSIONAL
- Integrity and Honesty: Ensuring that all RELATIONSHIP
actions and communications are truthful - TAKING RESPONSIBILITY
and transparent. - PROFESSIONALISM / STANDARDS
- Fairness: Treating all employees, - BE ACCOUNTABLE
customers, and stakeholders equitably - UPHOLD TRUST
and without bias. - INITIATIVE WITHOUT BEING TOLD
- Responsibility: Holding individuals - WORK SMARTER
accountable for their actions and UNETHICAL BEHAVIORS IN THE WORKPLACE
decisions, and ensuring that they Unethical workplace behavior can be intentional
contribute positively to the organization's and unintentional. In intentional unethical
goals and society. behavior, people know
- Respect: Valuing diversity, promoting a that they are crossing an ethical boundary and
positive work environment, and they act purposely. When people chose to behave
protecting the rights and dignity of all unethically, they can do it for selfish reasons, but
individuals. also, as the result of situations in which all
- Compliance: Adhering to laws, available options have ethical costs.
regulations, and industry standards - LIES
relevant to the organization’s operations. - VERBAL HARASSMENT/ABUSE
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): - NON-OFFICE RELATED WORK
Contributing positively to society by - THEFT/EMBEZZLEMENT
engaging in ethical business practices and - VIOLENCE
addressing social, environmental, and - SEXUAL HARASSMENT
economic issues. - CORRUPT PRACTICES
- TAKING CREDIT FOR OTHERS
OTHER SUB-FIELDS OF APPLIED ETHICS - EXTENDED BREAKS

16
ADVANTAGES AND IMPLICATIONS OF  Centralization: Decision-making
WORKPLACE ETHICS authority is concentrated at the top levels
 It can stimulate positive employee of management. Lower-level employees
behavior and create positive ambiance in have little input in decision-making.
the workplace.  Decentralization: Decision-making
 Ensures management guides and mentors authority is distributed throughout
their employee in a healthy environment. various levels in the organization,
 A workplace with good ethics usually allowing for more input from lower-level
strengthens employee’s bond with their employees.
superiors.
HOW TO SOLVE UNETHICAL ISSUES IN THE Functional Structure
WORKPLACE A functional structure is an organizational
 Have Rules model where the company is divided into
 Accept Feedback/Complaint departments based on different functions, such
 List consequences for Unethical Behaviors as marketing, finance, production, etc. Each
 Swift Justice/Disciplinary Action department has its own specialized duties and
responsibilities.
MODULE 7: THE ORGANIZATION
Organizational Structure Divisional Structure
Organizational structure refers to the way In a divisional structure, the organization
in which a company or organization is organized, is divided into semi-autonomous divisions based
including the relationships between the different on products, services, or geography. Each
roles, responsibilities, and authority levels division functions independently and has its own
within the organization. It determines how resources such as finance, human resources, etc.
information flows and how tasks are divided and
coordinated. Matrix Structure
Hierarchy Structure A matrix structure combines elements of
A hierarchy structure is a system in which both functional and divisional structures.
employees are ranked at various levels according Employees have dual reporting relationships—
to their status or authority. It typically looks like usually to both a functional manager and a
a pyramid with senior management at the top project or product manager. It helps in improving
and lower-level employees at the bottom, with flexibility and collaboration but can also create
clear lines of authority and decision-making. confusion over authority.
Departmentalization
Departmentalization is the process of Organizational Culture (Positive and
dividing an organization into different Negative)
departments, each of which is responsible for a  Positive Organizational Culture:
specific set of tasks. These departments may be Encourages teamwork, innovation,
based on function, product, geography, or employee well-being, and ethical
customer type, and help to streamline operations behavior, resulting in increased job
within an organization. satisfaction and high employee morale.
Span of Control  Negative Organizational Culture: May
Span of control refers to the number of involve poor communication, a lack of
subordinates a manager or supervisor can trust, high levels of stress, or unethical
directly control. A wide span of control means a behavior, leading to low job satisfaction
manager oversees many employees, while a and high turnover rates.
narrow span means they supervise fewer Effect of Organizational Culture on
employees. Employees’ Performance
A positive organizational culture
Centralization vs. Decentralization enhances employee motivation, productivity, and

17
engagement, leading to higher performance 7. The common good: Act in ways that
levels. In contrast, a negative culture can cause benefit society as a whole.
low morale, inefficiency, and decreased Key Causes of Unethical Behavior
productivity.  No code of ethics: Lack of formal ethical
guidelines.
Effect of Organizational Culture on  Employees are afraid to speak up: Fear
Employees’ Behavior of retaliation prevents reporting of
A healthy culture fosters positive unethical practices.
behaviors like collaboration, responsibility, and  Pressure to succeed: High performance
ethical decision-making. A toxic culture may demands can lead to cutting ethical
promote negative behaviors such as blame- corners.
shifting, dishonesty, and poor teamwork.  No policy for reporting: Lack of
mechanisms for employees to safely
Organizational Climate report unethical behavior.
Organizational climate refers to the  Lack of training: Employees may not
shared perceptions and attitudes employees fully understand ethical expectations or
have about their work environment. It includes situations.
factors such as openness, support, fairness, and  Managers setting bad examples:
leadership style, which influence the overall Leadership plays a crucial role in setting
atmosphere in an organization. ethical standards. When managers behave
unethically, it encourages the same
How to Improve an Organization’s Ethical behavior among employees.
Climate MODULE 8: THE SEVEN
1. Raise awareness about the mission of
the organization: Clearly communicate STRENGTHS OF THE FILIPINO
the organization's values and ethical CHARACTER
standards. The Seven Strengths of the Filipino Character
2. Identify factors that motivate people: 1. Pakikipagkapwa-tao (Respect for
Understand what drives employees and Others)
align rewards with ethical behavior. Filipinos have a strong sense of shared
3. Improve task delegation: Ensure that humanity and community. They are
roles and responsibilities are clearly compassionate, helpful, and value
defined and delegated fairly. interpersonal relationships, often
4. Encourage team cooperation: Foster a showing genuine concern for others.
collaborative environment where ethical 2. Family Orientation
behavior is rewarded and supported. The family is the center of Filipino social
The Seven General Moral Principles for life. Filipinos are deeply loyal to their
Managers by Kent Hodgson family members and show respect for
1. Dignity of human life: Respect and family traditions and elders. Family ties
protect human rights. are a source of support, security, and
2. Autonomy: Respect individuals’ rights to identity.
make decisions. 3. Joy and Humor
3. Honesty: Ensure truthfulness in all Filipinos have a natural inclination for
business dealings. happiness, even in difficult situations.
4. Loyalty: Be faithful to promises and They find joy in simple things, laugh at
commitments. themselves, and have an infectious sense
5. Fairness: Treat all stakeholders with of humor that lightens the burden of
equity and justice. everyday life.
6. Humaneness: Avoid causing harm and 4. Flexibility, Adaptability, and Creativity
seek to promote the well-being of others. Filipinos are resilient and resourceful,

18
 able to adapt to different situations and 5. Colonial Mentality
make the most of whatever is available. Some Filipinos have a tendency to favor
This strength allows them to cope with foreign cultures and products over their
life’s challenges in creative ways. own, resulting in a lack of appreciation for
5. Hard Work and Industry local heritage and a diminished sense of
Filipinos are known for their national pride.
determination and perseverance. They 6. Kanya-kanya Syndrome (Self-serving
value hard work as a means to improve Attitudes)
their lives and strive to succeed, even This weakness refers to an individualistic
when facing economic hardships. approach where people prioritize their
6. Faith and Religiosity personal gain, often to the detriment of
Religion plays a vital role in Filipino others. This attitude undermines unity
culture. Faith in God provides Filipinos and collaboration.
with hope, strength, and optimism. This 7. Lack of Self-Analysis and Reflection
strong religious faith often translates into Filipinos may avoid confronting personal
a deep spiritual life and moral compass. or societal issues, resulting in limited self-
7. Bayanihan (Community Spirit) improvement or social progress. The
Filipinos are cooperative and willing to tendency to gloss over problems or
help others, especially in times of need. remain passive can hinder personal and
The concept of "bayanihan" reflects the national development.
sense of communal unity and cooperation Other Filipino Cultural Values
in achieving common goals.  Utang na Loob (Debt of Gratitude)
The Seven Weaknesses of the Filipino Filipinos feel a strong obligation to repay
Character those who have helped them. This value
1. Extreme Personalism strengthens social bonds but can
Filipinos often take things personally, sometimes lead to obligations that may
which may hinder objectivity and become burdensome.
professional relationships. This can lead  Hiya (Sense of Shame)
to nepotism, favoritism, and inefficiency Hiya is a social value related to dignity,
when personal relationships are honor, and reputation. Filipinos often
prioritized over merit. avoid actions that may bring shame to
2. Extreme Family-Centeredness themselves, their family, or their
While family loyalty is a strength, it can community.
also lead to problems like paternalism  Delicadeza (Sense of Propriety)
and exclusion of others who are not Filipinos value discretion and maintaining
family members. In some cases, this can appropriate behavior in social situations.
promote a culture of dependency and This value is rooted in maintaining
entitlements within families. personal integrity and honor.
3. Lack of Discipline  Pakikisama (Smooth Interpersonal
Filipinos sometimes struggle with time Relationships)
management, procrastination, and Filipinos prioritize harmony and avoiding
following through on plans. This can conflict. They often go along with group
manifest as inefficiency, lack of decisions and maintain peace, sometimes
accountability, and poor work ethics. at the expense of their own preferences.
4. Passivity and Lack of Initiative  Hospitality
Filipinos may sometimes hesitate to Filipinos are known for being warm and
assert themselves or take initiative, welcoming, especially to guests and
preferring to follow rather than lead. This strangers. They take pride in offering the
can limit opportunities for personal best they can to visitors, no matter their
growth and innovation. own personal circumstances.

19
Roots of the Filipino Character governance issues have influenced the
The Filipino character has been shaped by sense of disillusionment among Filipinos,
various influences throughout history. The main contributing to cynicism and a lack of
roots include: trust in institutions. At the same time, it
1. Home Environment has fostered a sense of activism and
The close-knit Filipino family is the desire for reform in certain sectors.
bedrock of Filipino values. The family
provides emotional, social, and moral 9. Mass Media
support, instilling values like respect, Mass media, including television, radio,
loyalty, and the importance of print, and social media, play a significant
relationships. role in shaping the Filipino character. It
2. Social Environment influences public opinion, social norms,
Socialization among peers, communities, and perceptions of success, beauty, and
and the workplace contributes to the behavior. Filipino values such as
development of interpersonal values like resilience and bayanihan (community
pakikisama (smooth interpersonal spirit) are often promoted in media
relationships) and bayanihan (community campaigns, while consumerism and
spirit). Western ideals can also be perpetuated,
3. Culture and Language contributing to colonial mentality and
Filipino culture and language promote materialism. Media has a dual role in
communal ties and identity. Festivals, fostering both positive and negative
traditions, and language reinforce values values depending on its content.
of unity, cooperation, and mutual respect. 10. Leadership and Role Models
4. History Filipino society places a high value on
The Philippines’ colonial history, leadership and the behavior of role
particularly under Spanish, American, and models, such as politicians, celebrities,
Japanese rule, has influenced the Filipino educators, and community leaders.
psyche. Colonial mentality and a sense of Leaders’ actions and public figures’
inferiority to Western standards have also lifestyles heavily influence public
shaped some cultural weaknesses. behavior and perceptions of morality,
5. Educational System integrity, and success. Unfortunately,
Education in the Philippines is a corrupt leadership can perpetuate
significant institution in shaping negative traits like a lack of accountability
character. However, it has also been and dishonesty, while good leadership
criticized for promoting colonial ideals can inspire values like hard work,
and insufficiently addressing local needs. integrity, and service to the community.
6. Religion Role models in the home, school, and
Religion, particularly Roman Catholicism, society help shape aspirations and
plays a crucial role in shaping values like provide examples for Filipinos to emulate.
faith, respect for authority, and a strong
moral foundation. It also fosters a sense of
community and charity.
7. Economic Environment
The challenges of economic hardship in
the Philippines have developed resilience,
resourcefulness, and hard work but also
resulted in societal issues like extreme
poverty, inequality, and brain drain.
8. Political Environment
Political instability, corruption, and

20