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Research Article

Exploring Stories of "Nagbubulag-Bulagan": A Narrative Inquiry Into Filipino Conversational Behavior of Selective Ignorance

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Melanie Delda
Psych Educ Multidisc J, 2025, 49 (1), 109-119, DOI: https://doi.org/10.70838/pemj.490110, ISSN 2822-4353
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Abstract

This study examines the understanding of the Filipino idiom "nagbubulag-bulagan" as a conversational behavior of selective ignorance among three generational cohorts: Generation X (45-60), Generation Y (29-44), and Generation Z (13-28). Employing a qualitative narrative inquiry, data were collected from 16 purposively sampled individuals and analyzed through the lenses of High-Context Communication, Face Negotiation Theory, Spiral of Silence Theory, and Sikolohiyang Pilipino. Findings reveal distinct generational patterns in how "nagbubulagbulagan" is used in everyday Filipino interactions. Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z are undergoing a generational shift from passive collectivism to engaged individualism, with Gen X adopting a cautious, pragmatic approach, Millennials balancing responsibility and social change, and Gen Z advocating for assertive truth-telling. While older generations may regard "pakikisama" and "hiya" as pillars of harmony, newer generations increasingly perceive these values through a critical and justice-oriented lens, calling for cultural introspection and transformation. This research contributes to intercultural communication and indigenous psychology by highlighting how a culturally specific idiom reflects the evolving generational values and socio-political engagement. Recommendations are made for educational integration, intergenerational dialogue, and further research into digital discourse and psychological implications.

Keywords Filipino idioms nagbubulag-bulagan pretending to be blind selective ignorance communicative culture sikolohiyang pilipino high-context communication, face negotiation theory, spiral of silence theory, media literacy
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The team behind this paper

1 author, 1 institution.

This paper Polytechnic University of the Philippines — Philippines Polytechnic University … 1 author Melanie Delda — corresponding author MD Melanie Delda ✉

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November 2025 November 2026

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Bibliographic Information

Melanie Delda (2025). Exploring Stories of "Nagbubulag-Bulagan": A Narrative Inquiry Into Filipino Conversational Behavior of Selective Ignorance, Psychology and Education: A Multidisciplinary Journal, 49(1): 109-119
Bibtex Citation
@article{melanie_delda2025pemj,
author = {Melanie Delda},
title = {Exploring Stories of "Nagbubulag-Bulagan": A Narrative Inquiry Into Filipino Conversational Behavior of Selective Ignorance},
journal = {Psychology and Education: A Multidisciplinary Journal},
year = {2025},
volume = {49},
number = {1},
pages = {109-119},
doi = {10.70838/pemj.490110},
url = {https://scimatic.org/show_manuscript/6695}
}
APA Citation
Delda, M., (2025). Exploring Stories of "Nagbubulag-Bulagan": A Narrative Inquiry Into Filipino Conversational Behavior of Selective Ignorance. Psychology and Education: A Multidisciplinary Journal, 49(1), 109-119. https://doi.org/10.70838/pemj.490110

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