TY  - BOOK
AU  - Alpuerto, Cedric John C.,
AU  - Adolfo, Noel O.,
AU  - Aguilon, John Ashley G.,
AU  - Negre, Miro Jarold C.,
AU  - Siglos, Jayralph R.,
TI  - Behind the badge: exploring the lived experiences of female  police officers in handling violence against women and children cases 
PY  - 2025///
CY  - Cebu City, Philippines
PB  - University of Cebu-Banilad
KW  - Violence against women and children
KW  - Female police officers
KW  - Women and children's protection desk
KW  - Coping mechanisms
KW  - Descriptive phenomenology
KW  - Mandaue City
N1  - Includes bibliographical references
N2  - "Violence Against Women and Children [VAWC] remains a serious social concern that requires ethical and compassionate intervention from law enforcement agencies. Female police officers assigned to the Women and Children's Protection Desk [WCPD] play a crucial role in responding to and investigating VAWC cases while ensuring the safety of victims. However, limited qualitative studies have examined their lived experiences in handling such cases within the Philippine context. This study aimed to explore the experiences of female police officers in responding to and investigating VAWC cases, the strategies they employ in case handling, and the coping mechanisms they use in managing the emotional demands of their work.

This study employed a qualitative research a design, using descriptive-phenomenological approach. Participants were female police officers assigned to the WCPD at Police Station 6, Mandaue City, selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews guided by questions aligned with the study objectives and analyzed using thematic analysis to allow themes and significant statements to emerge from the participants' narratives.

Findings revealed that female police officers adopt a victim-centered approach characterized by empathy and trust-building when responding to VAWC cases. In investigating cases, they emphasized sensitivity, accuracy, and strict adherence to legal protocols. The officers also employed strategies such as encouragement, coordination with support agencies, and prioritization of victim safety and well-being. Despite emotional challenges, participants demonstrated resilience through coping mechanisms such as peer support and emotional regulation. These findings provide insights into the professional realities of female police officers and highlight the need for strengthened institutional support for WCPD personnel." —Abstract
ER  -