FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR IN BARANGAY PASONG TAMO

Abstract

Criminal behavior has been a persistent global concern for many years. Law enforcement agencies have adopted various strategies and technologies to detect and prevent crimes. However, the rising volume and complexity of criminal activities make it increasingly difficult to maintain control. In recent years, artificial intelligence has significantly enhanced the ability of law enforcement to identify and predict criminal behavior, improving overall efficiency in crime prevention. The study involved 50 respondents—40 residents and 10 police officers—selected through simple random sampling. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires designed to gather relevant data on factors contributing to criminal behavior. The researchers ensured that all respondents provided accurate and complete information to support the study’s objectives. Among the 50 respondents, 30% were aged 32–40 years old, 34% were 26–30, 16% were 21–25, and 10% were 40 and above. The group was composed of 52% female and 48% male respondents. In terms of civil status, 58% were single, while 42% were married. Educational attainment varied, with 46% at the high school level, 28% as high school graduates, 20% as college graduates, and 6% at the elementary level.

Respondents evaluated the conditions influencing criminal behavior in Barangay Pasong Tamo using three categories: biological (OWM = 3.12, Agree), psychological (OWM = 3.21, Agree), and sociological factors (OWM = 3.63, Strongly Agree). The most significant issues identified were poverty and unemployment, which often pushed individuals toward criminal acts as a means of financial survival. This concern ranked first, cited by 100% of respondents. The findings highlight the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociological factors that contribute to criminal behavior. Economic instability, particularly poverty and unemployment, emerged as the primary causes. The study recommends that community leaders and local authorities develop targeted interventions that address these root causes such as livelihood programs, education initiatives, and community-based counseling, to reduce crime rates and improve residents’ overall well-being.