The Dynamics of Emotional Behavior and Character Development in Children from Broken Homes: A Case Study at a Juvenile Special Development Institution (LPKA)

Zubaidah Zubaidah (Universitas Islam Negeri Fatmawati Sukarno Bengkulu)
Prio Utomo (Institut Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan (IKIP) Siliwangi, Cimahi)

Indonesian Journal of Character Education Studies
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): Indonesian Journal of Character Education Studies 3(1) 2026

Background: Broken home family conditions often affect children’s emotional development and character formation, particularly among juveniles in conflict with the law who undergo rehabilitation in juvenile correctional institutions. Objective: This study aims to analyse the dynamics of emotional behaviour and the factors influencing character development among juvenile inmates from broken home families at the Class II Juvenile Correctional Institution (LPKA) in Bengkulu City. Method: The study employed a qualitative case study to obtain an in-depth understanding of juveniles' emotional experiences. Data were collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews with five juvenile inmates and two correctional officers, and analysis of relevant documentation. Result: The findings reveal that the juveniles experience complex emotional fluctuations, including sadness, anger, loneliness, and low self-esteem, which are triggered by family conflict, lack of parental attention, and negative social environments. Nevertheless, rehabilitation programs at the LPKA, such as counseling, spiritual activities, educational programs, and social activities, help the juveniles express and manage their emotions more constructively. Conclusion: The study concludes that a holistic, psychosocially supported rehabilitation approach is essential for promoting emotional stability and strengthening character development among juvenile inmates. Originality/Value: This study provides empirical and psychosocial novelty in the field of developmental psychology and juvenile justice rehabilitation by uncovering the complex emotional dynamics (anger, loneliness, and low self-esteem) and the efficacy of holistic rehabilitation programs (counseling, spiritual mentoring, and education) concerning character development and emotional regulation among children from broken-home families within the institutional context of a Juvenile Special Development Institution (LPKA), an area that has remained insufficiently documented. These findings enrich empirical evidence and serve as a strategic reference for designing targeted psychosocial intervention models and enhancing child-centered correctional rehabilitation policies.