The "Can't Say No Syndrome" among Filipino adults
Garcia, R. (2017).
ABSTRACT
An individual who displays the Can’t Say No Syndrome (CSNS) has a sense of self-worth that appears to depend on the support of others. They have difficulty in being assertive and are habitually saying “yes”. Similar to the concept of the CSNS are Filipino cultural notions namely, “kapwa”, “hiya”, “utang na loob”, and “pakikisama”. This value system can be illustrated in the popular Filipino concept of “masamang tao”, “walang hiya”, “walang utang na loob” and “walang pakikisama”. The current study has investigated the factors, advantages and disadvantages of the CSNS. Interviews were conducted to nine (n=9) male and female adults between the age of 23 – 56 years old residing in Benguet, Pangasinan and Metro Manila. Pagtatanung-tanong (asking questions) and pakikipagkwentuhan (sharing stories) were used to determine their experiences. Responses from the interview were analyzed through thematic analysis too. The results show that the CSNS among Filipino adults are evident in almost all the aspects of interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships. The result reveals themes namely: Moral Obligation, Guilt, Avoidance of Negative Outcomes and having No Choice. However, the CSNS can be advantageous as individuals were motivated to Self-Actualize. Conversely, this may lead to such disadvantages: Contradicting Ones’ Own Values and Beliefs, and People Pleasing and Approval Seeking to adhere to expectations and aspirations of others.
Keywords: Can’t Say No Syndrome, People Pleasing, “no”
