International Journal of Research Studies in Management
Divine Word College of San Jose Special Issue
2026 Volume 14 Issue 2
Available Online: 2 April 2026
Author/s:
Malaluan, Kc Krentz Ezra R.*
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (mkckrentzezra@gmail.com)
Bautista, Angel Mae R.
Salgan, Sheila Mae S.
Bagatsolon, Aizzley Charm S.
Ragudo, Teo Joaquin C.
Bacani, Rizaldy II T.
Rodil, Maria Victoria B.
Abstract:
Engagement in community activities is essential for fostering youth’s social development and strengthening their ties to the community. Although youth engagement has been extensively examined in numerous studies, the relationship between senior high school students’ sense of belonging and their participation in community activities at private Catholic institutions has received comparatively limited scholarly attention. This study aimed to determine the relationship between senior high school students’ sense of belonging at Divine Word College of San Jose and their participation in community activities during the 2025-2026 academic year. A total of 412 students, from both Grade 11 and Grade 12, were selected via stratified random sampling to participate in the study, which employed a quantitative, descriptive-correlational research design. A 30-item modified questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale was used to collect the data. The data were analyzed using the weighted mean and Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. The findings indicated a high level of acceptance, strong social relationships, a sense of emotional security, and moderate participation in community activities. Additionally, the findings showed a strong positive correlation between participation and sense of belonging. The results indicate that students who participate more in community activities tend to feel a stronger sense of belonging. Lastly, the statistically significant, moderately to strongly positive correlations suggest that greater involvement in community activities is associated with higher levels of belonging, particularly regarding acceptance, interpersonal connection, and emotional equilibrium. Consequently, schools and community stakeholders are advised to strengthen youth-centered programs and collaborative activities that promote active participation and inclusive environments.
Keywords: community activities, sense of belonging, youth participation, senior high school, Catholic school
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26020
Cite this article:
Malaluan, K. K. E. R., Bautista, A. M. R., Salgan, S. M. S., Bagatsolon, A. C. S., Ragudo, T. J. C., Bacani, R. I. T., & Rodil, M. V. B. (2026). Participation of senior high school students in community activities and their sense of belonging. International Journal of Research Studies in Management, 14(2), 105-115. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26020
* Corresponding Author