Understanding at-risk behavior: The role of media consumption in criminology students
Lornilee M. Subere, Wilfredo O. De la Cruz Jr., Francisco R. Castro Jr. & Nicholas S. Caballero
Abstract
While international research has extensively examined the influence of media on behavior, limited attention has been given to how media consumption affects future criminal justice practitioners. This study examined the relationship between traditional and modern media exposure and at‑risk behaviors among criminology students at a private university in Western Visayas, Philippines. Using a quantitative, descriptive cross‑sectional design, data were collected from 323 participants selected through stratified random sampling, ensuring proportional representation across year levels. Statistical analyses included frequency distribution, mean, standard deviation, independent samples t-test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results revealed that most participants were first‑year male students who reported daily media use of three hours or less. Overall exposure to both traditional and modern media was low, suggesting minimal engagement in at‑risk behaviors. Significant differences in media exposure were observed when participants were grouped according to year level and daily media consumption, while no significant difference was found when grouped according to sex. The findings highlight the need for targeted media‑literacy interventions within criminology programs, particularly for lower year levels and students with higher daily media consumption, to reinforce ethical awareness and responsible media engagement.
Keywords
media exposure, risk behavior indicators, criminal justice education, youth behavior patterns, digital influence
Author information & Contribution
Lornilee M. Subere. Bachelor of Science in Criminology. Alumni, College of Criminal Justice Education, STI West Negros University. Email: lornileesubere@gmail.com
Wilfredo O. De la Cruz Jr. Master of Science in Criminology Major in Forensic Science. Faculty Member, College of Criminal Justice Education, STI West Negros University. Email: delacruzwilfjr@gmail.com
Francisco R. Castro Jr. Corresponding author. Bachelor of Science in Criminology. Professor 3, College of Criminal Justice Education, STI West Negros University. Email: castrojrfrancisco35@gmail.com
Nicholas S. Caballero. PhD in Criminal Justice. Dean - College of Criminal Justice Education, STI West Negros University.
"All authors equally contributed to the conception, design, preparation, data gathering and analysis, and writing of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript."
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Funding
This work was not supported by any funding.
Declaration
The authors acknowledge the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the preparation of this manuscript. All AI-assisted content was thoroughly reviewed, verified, and edited by the author to ensure accuracy, integrity, and consistency with the study’s objectives. The authors assume full responsibility for the final content of the manuscript.
Notes
This paper is presented in the 3rd International Conference on Management, Education & Innovation (ICMEI) 2026
Acknowledgement
The researchers extend their gratitude to STI West Negros University for providing the financial assistance that supported the presentation of this study as well as to the research members; Mr Abian, Jonel T, Andales, Justine J., Pamillaran, Ralph T., Peasalbo, Twinkle for their invaluable contribution and support.
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Cite this article:
Subere, L.M., De la Cruz Jr., W.O., Castro Jr., F.R. & Caballero, N.S. (2026). Understanding at-risk behavior: The role of media consumption in criminology students. The Research Probe, 6(2), 1-21. https://doi.org/10.53378/trp.235
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