EFFECTS OF POSITIVE FORCE AND ITS INFLUENCE AGAINST CRIME AND DELINQUENCY

In Partial Fulfillment In Research

VILLANUEVA, Grace Faith

St. Paul University of Dumaguete S.Y. 2011-2012

CHAPTER 1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

1.1 Introduction

There are things in this world that govern us, without us noticing it. Doing things for ones self and for others, making decisions, and in how we react towards certain instances. Usually, these thing can be grouped into Two (2) aspects namely, Good (Positive) and Bad (Negative) Force. Positive Force usually relates to the theory of Goodness, pertaining to things or items that are beneficial to growth and gain of a person and/or others. Negative Force is the opposite of these things. In context, Religion and Prayer is one of the main factors in promoting Positive Force to a person/s. This is due to the fact that both religion and prayer provide a stepping stone in Positive transformation, guidance and support in a person. With this idea in mind, dissecting the Effects of Positive force especially against Crime and Delinquency with regards to its factors can enable further understanding on the subject matter.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

This research/study aims to determine and understand the effects of Positive force. In particular, the research/study seeks to achieve the following: 1. Determine the effects of Positive force and its influence against crime and delinquency. 2. Understand the process wherein religion and prayer can intervene in preventing crime and delinquency, and at the same time, find ways to apply it to improve our society.

1.3 Significance of the Study

This research/study is concerned with the analysis of the effects of Positive Force and its influence against crime and delinquency. With this research/study, a greater understanding is achieved with regards to the influence of Positive force in its role in preventing/eliminating undesirable aspects of our society. Another is the idea that this research/study can serve as a guide, educating people especially the Students of St. Paul University of Dumaguete more on the topic concerned for future reference with regards to religion and prayer in pertaining to the cause against crime and delinquency.

1.4 Theoretical Framework

There are several factors why determining the effects of Positive force is essential especially on its influence against crime and delinquency. One is the fact that not only does it stop a certain problem, but also prevents it to be repeated, since it targets from the core of the problem, usually enlightening and redirecting people away from the road of destruction. Another fact is that it also promotes awareness in how Positive force is applied in addressing concerns in the society.
 Addressing concerns of the Society such as Crimes and Delinquency

Input

Process

Application of Positive Force through Religion and Prayer

Output

 Enlightenment of Crime Doers and Delinquents.  Lesser Crime and Delinquent Rate.

Fig. 1. Input Process Output of Applying Positive force against problems such as Crime and Delinquency.

1.5 Conceptual Framework

Fig. 2. Simple Conceptual diagram of the applying positive force through religion and prayer.

The Idea of Applying positive force through Religion, prayer and other means is a thought wherein benefits can be observed. Such as creating a better understanding with regards to solving todays problems in the society. Along with this, it also addresses the possibilities of enlightenment and deeper thought for the greater good of those doing the deeds (criminals, delinquents, etc.), making them have a realization of what they are doing.

1.6 Hypothesis

The Research of the stated investigation/study believes in the following assumptions: y Application of Positive force through catalysts such as Religion and prayer in addressing crime and delinquency can expect that it contributes in the Resolve of the Issues of the Society.

Solving problems in a positive manner, not only helps in finding a solution to the issue, but also help the people concerned to a deeper aspect.

1.7 Scope and Delimitation

The study aims to determine the effects of the intervention using positive force through factors such as religion and prayer in addressing problems such as crime and delinquency. A number of people from the streets, offices and other areas will be evaluated with regards to how factors such as Religion and prayer have affected their lifestyles and on their thinking in situations that are in need of decisions. The area of study is limited only to Dumaguete City. To determine the responses, a simple survey and interviews with people from various walks of life is made to get input from different levels/groups.

1.8 Definition of Terms

Delinquency 1. Unlawful behavior: antisocial or illegal behavior or acts, especially by young people. 2. Neglect of duty : failure to fulfill a duty, commitment, or Responsibility

Religion beliefs and worship: peoples beliefs and opinions concerning the existence, nature, and worship of a deity or deities, and divine involvement in the universe and human life.

Prayer 1. Address to God: a spoken or unspoken address to God, a deity, or a saint. It may express praise, thanksgiving, confession, or a request for something such as help or somebodys well-being. 2. Something wished for: something that is wanted or hoped for very much.

CHAPTER 2 REVIEW OF RELATED LEGAL BASES/LITERATURE

2.1 The Positive Force

The idea of Positive force usually can be derived from the belief that in everything we do, we do it positively or negatively, wherein, have results respectively. In the past, the Chinese and Egyptians believe in a greater force related to the idea of doing things in a positive and/or negative way. The Chinese believe in the idea of Yin and Yang, whereas one would not exist if without the other. To expound more, yin and yang is used to describe how polar opposites or seemingly contrary forces are interconnected and interdependent in the natural world, and how they give rise to each other in turn. Opposites thus only exist in relation to each other. So, with that sense, the world is operated by equal amounts of good and bad forces, with us, human beings, and even other living organisms doing things in line to these forces, getting equivalent results. In addition to the belief of Yin and Yang, it doesnt necessarily mean that if theyre opposite forces, they are opposing, but as complementary elements of the world. The Egyptians also believe in the same doctrine, where in they termed it as Maat (the ancient Egyptian concept of truth, balance, order, law, morality, and justice.) and Isfet (the ancient Egyptian concept of chaos). Also similar to those of the Chinese, these forces balance the world.

2.2 Prayer and Religion

According to a particular saying, Prayer and Religion works hand in hand, and is equally important, like a bird equally needing both left and right wings to fly. In simple talk, Religion is dry without prayer and Prayer is incomplete without religion. Religion sprang from consistent prayer, incorporating an Image to direct the prayers to, such as a primordial being, now referred to as God, Yahweh, Allah, etc. In

this sense, it evolved into a complex system, creating principles and doctrines, making the belief revolve around the item/being the prayers are being directed to. Later, the primordial beings are refastened as the ones watching over us, governing our every move, rewarding the good and punishing the wicked. This came to be what we now call Religion.(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion) Prayer started out with the idea that something larger than life, sometimes depicted as someone from above, that is listening to our thoughts and wishes. This belief sprang from the process where people wish on something, and it being granted, resolving to the indication that someone heard the wish. This, made the Theory of Prayer. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer)

2.3 Importance of Prayer

And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed Mark 1:35

According to John Abraham Godson, Prayer is a communion with God. Prayer is that act of going into Gods presence to be with the Lord. Prayer is bringing God and His resources into our earthly realities. Prayer is drawing upon divine resources to influence human reality. Prayer is breathing the breath of heaven. Prayer is the master key to everything we have been called to do. Without it our activities are empty, human and lack the breath of heaven. It is temporal and will never last.

Moreover, prayer affects a lot of aspects in our life, especially to our beliefs. Godson believes on the following factors:

We get to know God through prayer: One of the most important reasons why we need to pray is that we get to know God better through prayer. Prayer is communion with God. Those who know God better are those who spend quality time in Gods presence. These are men who know the secrets and the heartbeat of God. It is not possible to know God when we are occasional

visitors into Gods presence. It is not possible to know God if we are the type of Christian who just pop in to Gods presence to say hi and goodbye. We cannot get to know God if we are the type of Christians who treat God as fire extinguisher- that is using God for our ends. God reveals Himself to those who really care; to those who are willing to the pay the price of separating themselves often and long in other to seek Him. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:12-13)

We are empowered through prayer: Prayer is like charging your spiritual batteries. Many of you use mobile phones. What happens to it if you continue using it and never charge it? The answer is obvious. The battery will run down and sooner or later the phone will stop functioning until it is adequately and fully charged. No matter how good or modern a mobile phone may be, it is useless unless it is charged. In the same way we cannot afford not to pray. God renews our strength when we pray. No matter how strong or gifted you are, if you do not pray, you are on your way to death, destruction and irrelevance. No matter how large and demanding our ministry is, we should spend enough and adequate time in prayer. The task that has been committed to us by God can only be fulfilled by people who are constantly filled with spiritual life.

Prayer makes you dangerous for the devil and for the kingdom of darkness. There is nothing that is as dangerous to the devil as a Christian that prays. The devil will not bother with Christians who are lukewarm, prayerless and canal. They pose no threat to him. Praying Christians are the greatest dangers to the kingdom of hell. And mark me, the devil will do everything in his power to stop you or discourage you from praying. The devil loves those Christians who are too busy to pray. He hates those Christians who make out time to immerse themselves into Gods presence. These are his greatest threats. These Christians become too hot for him. Their presence cast our demons.

Their words are like fire. They change spiritual realities around them- because they pray.

Prayer changes you: Prayer not only changes situations and circumstances, but one of the most important reasons we need to pray is that God changes us in prayer. Jacob was a cheat and a deceiver. He had cheated all his life. He always had his way. Not until he really started to pray. He was so afraid of meeting his brother Esau that he decided to set time aside to pray. He prayed all night and never came out the same. His name changed from Jacob to Israel. His destiny changed. (Genesis 32:24-28). Maybe you have struggled all your life to be good but nothing seems to change. You have struggled to become a better person but you still have problems with your carnality. Prayer is the key. Prayer will change you because God works through prayer.

God does things in answer to prayer: God does answer prayer. The Bible says Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! (Matt 7:7-11) God gives good things to those who ask Him. God answers prayer. Another verse says You do not have because you do not ask (James 4:3). God gives to those who ask Him. God gives to those who trust Him to the point of asking Him. God is able to answer your prayers even beyond your expectations Now unto him that is able to do exceeding

abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us Eph 3:20. No matter what your situation is, no matter what circumstances you may be facing, take it to God in prayer. He is able, more than able to answer your prayers. He wants to answer your prayers. He longs to hear your prayers. He wants to know that you trust Him, that you believe in

him to the point of coming to Him with all that touches you. It makes Him glad. It is His joy to answer your prayers.

Prayer involves God in what you do: When we pray you invite God into your situations. It is like bringing heaven into earth. It makes eternal values real. The presence of God in any situation delivers, releases, and builds. It transforms the temporary and earthly to become eternal.

Prayer clarifies our perspectives: When we pray, we receive wisdom and our perspectives are clarified and we are able to make wise and godly decisions. Prayer makes us to see into spiritual realities beyond what the human eyes can see. Prayer gives us an understanding of the spiritual powers behind activities and realities visible to the human eyes.

Through prayer we are delivered from temptations: And when he was at the place, he said to them pray that you enter not into temptation.And he said to them, why sleep ye? Rise and pray lest ye enter into temptation (Luke 22:40,46). Prayer makes us able to withstand temptations. Many have fallen and defeated because they neglected prayer. Our enemy the devil, the tempter is at the business of weakening and destroying believers. Jesus encourages to be in the place of prayer lest we fall into temptation. Prayer is the key.

2.4 Importance of Religion

In Sociology the word 'religion' not only refers to our beliefs, but also has importance in other aspects. Thus some sociologists define religion as a system of beliefs and doctrines where Man found the answers to his lifes questions. Even if Religion is usually depicted as a personal connection, it also affects a bigger picture. It has been a game changer in the society, where in forming the world to what it is now. According to A. Green, religion has various universal functions. These are:

1. Religion explains individual suffering. Man does not live by knowledge alone. He is an emotional creature. Religion serves to the emotions of man in times of his sufferings and disappointment. On God religion puts faith and entertains the belief that some unseen power moves in mysterious ways to make even his loss meaningful. In this way religion gives release from sorrow and release from fear. It helps man to bear his frustration and integrate his personality.

2. Religion enhances self-importance. Religion expands one's self to infinite proportions. Man unites himself with the Infinite and feels ennobled. Society also gains from the self-flattery provided by religious belief. Religion assures a greater reward in the afterlife to worldly failures than to successful life. Such kind of assurance encourages members to continue to play their part in society.

3. Religion comes as a source of social cohesion. Religion is the ultimate source of social cohesion. The primary requirement of society is the possession of social values by which individuals control the action of self and others and through which society is perpetuated. Science and technology cannot create this value. Religion is the foundation upon which these values rest. Children should obey their parents, should not tell lie, women should be faithful to men, people should be honest and Virtuous, are some of the social values which maintain social cohesion.

4. Religion encourages social welfare. Religion has also performed some other services to humanity like the provision of work, the priesthood often dedicated to art and culture. The priesthood lays the foundation of medicine. It also fulfils the functions of scholars and scientists. Religion has served humanity through spreading of education and also creating the habit of charity among the people who open many charitable institutions like hospitals, rest houses, temples and to help the poor.

5. Religion is the agency of social control. Religion provides a model for living. It upholds certain ideals and values. The believer imbibes these ideals and values in his life. Religion can help youth generation to become moral, disciplined and socialized citizens of society.

6. Religion controls economic life. Max Weber was of the view that religion also controls the economic life. To Weber, capitalism grew in the Protestant nations like England, U.S.A. It did not grow in Italy and Spain where the people are Catholic. The Hindus lay great stress on spiritual progress than on material progress. Hence, materialism could not grow in India.

2.5 The Balance between Religion and Prayer

As described in the previous chapter, Religion works hand in hand with Prayer in achieving a goal. They create a symbolic bond, wherein Religion gets its foundation in prayer and Prayer on the other hand, is directed by religion. Life without Religion creates a disoriented being, where fear and respect are absent. Life without Prayer usually results to the loss of peace of mind. Wise and calm thinking is uncommon and Peace is inevitable. Together, they complement and support each other, changing people and their mindset in doing things and thinking about matters. It can also be observed if a person is in touch with his/her religion, for it is obvious that he/she sincerely has a sense of direction in what he/she does. Same in the case of a person that has undergone prayer. Praying, by many, is considered a stress reliever, or a burden unloaded. This is due to the fact that in praying, we get in touch with our Parent, whom we share our happiness, pains, wishes and other matters that have a connection with our deeper self.

CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY
3.1 Procedures Used

In order to make the research possible, first to be done is an interview with religion teachers, members of religious groups and even average people, to determine what the effects of positive force in their lives and in their point of view. After the various interviews, deliberation is done, to come up with a summary, in order to simplify the ideas for the next phase of the research. One interview, from a student and acolyte is shown to see on his point of view how positive force has affected/influenced in his life (refer to Appendix A). This leads to a deeper research using the resources found in the internet and in libraries, since the research requires sources not only from local vicinities but in a wider scope. After thorough research, a short survey was done, usually resulting to what is morally expected (refer to Appendix B). Lastly, once essential input from the surveys, interviews and also from researched resources, coming up the examples on the effects is achieved.

3.2 Sources of Data

Interview an interview was done to get deeper input from essential people. This included a religion teacher, a student/acolyte and an average citizen.

Survey - A survey is conducted in various premises, usually on some households to get input on other peoples ideas/opinions with regards to the research.

The Library - A lot of knowledge can be found in this area, especially with publications regarding religion, prayer, its effects, importance, etc.

Online sources - The internet is also a good source of data, especially with regards to the ever changing state of knowledge of the world today. This is also a very up-to-date source, since new info is usually posted almost everyday.

3.3 Methods of Gathering Data

Interview - as explained in the previous section, an interview was conducted simply using the informal approach in order to get more out of the essential persons to make the research more successful.

Survey - A survey was conducted through a short list of questionnaires, to 10 households, surveying 1 member each and also to 10 people from the streets, coming from different areas. In the process, a simple sampling method was conducted. (refer to Appendix C for the Questionnaire)

Deep Research - Researching is always constant in this study, especially since the topic is not only limited to a broad aspect.

3.4 Description of Data-gathering Instruments Used

Most of the Information regarding the methods and Instruments used are already explained in the previous sections.

3.5 Materials Needed

A Desktop Computer with Internet Connection - The study needed information to support the research. This tool was essential especially in finding sources in and outside the country, through the world wide web.

Surveys to get data from people in a statistical level.

CHAPTER 4 FINDINGS, SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

4.1 Findings

Religion and Prayer have been important key elements in how the world operates. Peace and order is achieved when human beings think and feel Peace. Our minds are in peace when we dump all our noises outside our system, usually by sharing it and persevere in eliminating it. One good example is by praying. The idea of giving it all to the Great Listener and not expecting a reply but being contented on the expression of whats troubling us can really modify our perspective during the day. If it is to be observed in a lot of people, crime wouldnt be high. Also, we can see that most City Jails have Religious services for its tenants. One explanation is to let the crime doers be enlightened with the Concept of Religion and of Prayers. For this is considered a tool in Transformation for the better. In the other aspect, Delinquents are usually the result of problems with the self and of the family/friendship. They become who they are due to less attention from parents and lack of peace and serenity in themselves and in doing things. A factor in answering this problem is by constant monitoring and re/introducing them to the concept of Religion and of Prayer. Religion in the sense that they be aware that there is something greater than us that is watching us and in our every move.

To sum it all up, addressing the Problems of our Society such as Crime and Delinquency usually is achieved by using Positive Force through factors of Prayer and Religion. Examples of measures in making it possible are as follows: y Reinforcing to the minds of the Citizens that Prayer and Religion greatly affects our lives. Trying it doesnt cost a thing but positive things will be returned. y Enlightenment is one factor people need. Being enlightened, they wouldnt resolve to doing sin, could aid in thinking clearly and making decisions wisely.

It always helps to Pray. Life doesnt require a person to always carry his/her burdens. Express ones problems by sharing it to God. After such, usually a person feels light and well distressed.

Do things Positively. Doing tasks when done in a positive manner, ends up in a better result. Treating others good, also gets to be treated Good.

4.2 Summary

Criminals and Delinquents usually are people who have trouble with their own selves. They resolve in doing the wrong things because they dont see the correct path to Goodness. They need to be treated positively and also be reinforced in the concept of Religion and Prayer to be guided accordingly, so that sin may not be repeated. Direct effects of this usually can be summarized as follows: y One who is Connected to his/her Religion and Prays results to being at peace and Calm in thinking y y y y y 4.3 Conclusions Being at Peace and Calm in thinking results to Correct Decisions. Correct Decisions result to Less Problems. Less Problems result to being Positive in ones self. Being Positive in ones self results to Being Positive in Life. Being Positive in Life does not result to Crime and Delinquency.

We have the option to do things Positively or Negatively. We are responsible for our actions. But we also know that Positive is symbolized by (+) and Negative by (-). This reminds us that if we choose to live positively, we add. We move forward. And Negative leads to subtraction, or stepping backwards. Let us be reminded that Crime and Delinquency results from the Negative way of living. We are to choose whats for our sake.

APPENDIX A

Interviewee

: _________Ervin John Dinopol_________ Date __________Student/Acolyte__________

:__February 1,2012__

1. In your opinion, has religion and prayer helped in our society? Why or why not? Yes. Because usually, when people do something, they pray. They believe that someone (God) is listening, making them be conscious of what they do, making them be embarrassed in doing something bad. This usually is observed in children, where they fear of doing something bad, because God is watching. If this system goes on till they grow-up, we become God-fearing people, contributing to our well-being. Similar to that system, I grew up as an acolyte, usually present in mass and other religious activities of the church, making me feel that God is always there, not only watch, but also guiding us.

2. What do you think should the people in the society do to lessen crime and delinquency? We should think before we act. And in this sense, think twice in doing things. Most people do wrong things because they do it without thinking. Without thinking of others. Without thinking that it can be hurtful to one s self, to others, and to God.

3. What does the church usually do in solving the concerns of the people? The church, as to what I observed as an acolyte, always reached out to the people. They help them, not usually financially but spiritually. They try their best to touch our spiritual aspects. It s usually our responsibility to do our part.

4. As a student, what can you do to address the problems of the society, through factors such as religion and prayer? Be a model to others. If I can t persuade people by talking to them, I act, for them to see. And also, let them see what happened to my life, as I try my best and am happy doing things alongside God s plan.

APPENDIX B

QUESTIONAIRRE SAMPLE

Name : ___________________________________________ Position : ______________ Address : ___________________________________________ Date : ______________ Please Answer the following either YES, NO or SOMETIMES. YES ( ) NO ( ) SOMETIMES ( )

1. Do you believe that in everything we do, a force, either Good or Bad, controls us? 2. Do you believe that these factors (such as religion and prayer) influence us in doing things? 3. Do you pray whenever a challenge, such as a tough decision or an event arises? 4. Do you feel better after praying? 5. Do you believe that Religion and Prayer has greatly affected your life? 6. Do you believe that without elements such as Religion and Prayer, your life wouldnt be the same as now? 7. Do you believe that with Religion and Prayer, Problems in the Society can be solved?

( (

) )

( (

) )

( (

) )

If you answered YES in question no.7, why? If NO, why not? ____________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ In your own Opinion, What do you consider is the effect of Religion and Prayer in your life? (Please list down 3) 1.____________________________________________________________________ 2.____________________________________________________________________ 3.____________________________________________________________________

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Black, James Roger. "The Instruction of Amenemope: A Critical Edition and Commentary--Prolegomenon and Prologue", Dissertation University of WisconsinMadison, 2002

Budge, E. A. Wallis. The Gods of the Egyptians: Studies in Egyptian Mythology Volume 1. New York: Dover Publications, 1969. Originally published in 1904.

Website References:

http://www.reshafim.org.il/ad/egypt/religion/isfet.htm

http://knol.google.com/k/the-importance-of-prayer#

http://www.preservearticles.com/201101183516/importance-of-religion.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer

Software Reference:

Microsoft Encarta 2009. 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation.