Shared Values of Criminology Program in Relation to Civic Engagement: The Role of Moral Identity and Social Concern

Shared values, unique to criminology students, alongside with distinct moral identities and social concern levels are critical in the cultivation of civic-minded individuals. The study examined the influence of shared values of Criminology program, moral identity and social concern towards civic engagement among criminology students at a Higher Education Institution (HEI) in Iligan City during the S.Y. 2024-2025. This study employed descriptive-correlational design. The respondents were the 126 students selected through stratified random sampling. Data was collected using modified questionnaires. The statistical tools used were Mean, Standard Deviation, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and Regression Analysis. Findings revealed a very high level of shared values such as courtesy, discipline, and integrity and tact among criminology students; a moderately high level of moral identity; and a very high level of social concern but revealed a low level of civic engagement behavior. Relationships were established among students’ shared values and civic engagement, moral self, and social concern. Moreover, moral integrity showed a negative relationship with social concern. Ultimately, criminology students’ shared values and moral identity were discovered to predict civic engagement behaviors. Cultivation of criminology shared values while shaping moral identity deliberately motivate students to get involved and contribute to societal betterment. The study recommended further reinforcement of criminology shared values through departmental initiatives while providing activities that guides students towards a much stronger moral identity.