Voices of Survival: Exploring the Experiences of Victims of Robbery

This qualitative phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of robbery victims in rural communities of Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines, focusing on emotional, psychological, and behavioral responses. Utilizing purposive sampling, ten participants were selected based on criteria including direct experience of robbery involving force or intimidation. In-depth, semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis revealed three core dimensions: the victims’ immediate experiences during the robbery, their enduring psychological and social impact, and their coping mechanisms. Victims described intense fear and helplessness, lasting emotional trauma, disrupted routines, broken trust, and financial instability. Despite these challenges, resilience emerged through faith, familial support, and adaptive behavior. Framed within Trauma Theory, the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, and Routine Activity Theory, the findings highlight the importance of trauma-informed victim support systems and community-based crime prevention strategies. The study underscores the need for culturally contextualized psychosocial interventions and policy reforms tailored to rural vulnerabilities.