Keywords:
Moral Courage
Ethical Decision-Making
Criminology Education

  • Abstract

    Criminology students are future practitioners in policing, corrections, and the broader criminal justice system. Their ability to make ethical decisions and demonstrate moral courage is vital for public trust and professional integrity. This study examined the relationship between moral courage and ethical decision-making among third-year criminology students. A descriptive research design was employed, collecting data through structured surveys, informal interviews, and non-participant observation. The study was conducted in a local higher education institution in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, with 133 purposively selected participants aged 20–25 who had completed ethics-related subjects. Quantitative analysis used frequencies, percentages, means, and Pearson correlation coefficients, while qualitative responses were thematically analyzed to identify strategies for strengthening these competencies. Findings revealed high levels of moral courage and ethical decision-making, particularly in taking responsibility and adhering to moral principles, though students showed hesitation in high-risk scenarios, such as reporting unethical practices. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.68, p < .01) indicated that moral courage supports ethical decision-making. Recommended strategies include experiential ethics seminars, role-playing simulations, mentorship, reflective journaling, and community engagement to enhance ethical resilience, practical decision-making, and professional confidence in complex justice scenarios.

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How to cite

Ayeo-eo, S. (2026). Moral Courage and Ethical Decision-Making Tendencies of Criminology Students. Multidisciplinary Science Journal, (| Accepted Articles). Retrieved from https://malque.pub/ojs/index.php/msj/article/view/16240
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