Job stress and job involvement of criminology interns of Cagayan state University and its relationship to their OJT performance

In contemporary work environments, job-related stress has become an inevitable concern due to increasing professional demands and expectations. Individuals often experience stress when these demands exceed their capabilities, potentially influencing their job involvement and performance. This study examined the relationship between job stress and job involvement among Criminology interns of Cagayan State University during the Academic Year 2023–2024. Employing a descriptive research design and a questionnaire-checklist, data were collected from 297 interns across multiple campuses. Findings revealed common stressors such as workload management and ethical dilemmas, with noticeable variations in emotional engagement and job satisfaction. Despite these stressors, interns demonstrated high levels of job involvement characterized by task commitment, engagement, and a strong sense of belonging. Campus affiliation significantly affected both job stress and job involvement, underscoring the need for synchronized implementation of internship programs university-wide. Moreover, the study found no direct relationship between on-the-job training performance and licensure examination outcomes. The interns recommended interventions such as orientation, enhanced supervision, practical exposure, and stress management seminars. The study highlights the importance of continuous orientation, mentorship, and stress management programs to sustain and enhance the professional development and performance of criminology interns.