LEADERSHIP AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT IN TACLOBAN CRIMINOLOGY SCHOOLS: BASIS FOR STRATEGIC INTERVENTION PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

The study investigated the leadership and conflict management practices among Criminology schools in Tacloban City as the basis for developing a strategic intervention program. Leadership and conflict management are essential components of effective school administration, influencing institutional climate, faculty performance, and organizational harmony. The research sought to determine the extent to which leadership practices are exercised by administrators and faculty members, identify the conflict management strategies most frequently utilized, and examine the relationship between these two variables. The study employed a descriptive-correlational research design using a quantitative approach. A total of 50 respondents, composed of 10 administrators and 40 faculty members from various Criminology schools in Tacloban City, participated in the study. A structured questionnaire served as the primary instrument for data collection. The tool measured leadership practices using the Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI) developed by Kouzes and Posner (2007) and conflict management strategies using the Thomas–Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI). Data were analyzed using weighted mean, standard deviation, and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient (r) at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that leadership practices among administrators and faculty members were always practiced, with an overall weighted mean of 4.55. The highest dimension was Enable Others to Act (4.62), indicating strong collaboration and empowerment within the institutions. Conflict management strategies were often practiced, with an overall mean of 4.03. The most frequently employed strategy was Collaborating (4.37), suggesting that respondents preferred cooperative and participative resolution methods. The computed correlation of r = 0.721 (p < 0.05) showed a positive and significant relationship between leadership and conflict management practices. Based on these findings, the researcher developed the Leadership Enhancement and Development (LEAD) Program, a proposed strategic intervention focusing on leadership training, conflict resolution, communication enhancement, and team-building initiatives. The study concluded that effective leadership significantly influences conflict management, thereby promoting institutional efficiency, professional growth, and harmonious relationships within Criminology schools. Keywords: Leadership Practices, Conflict Management, Criminology Schools, Descriptive-Correlational, Tacloban City