IMPACT OF POLICE CYNICISM ON CRIME REPORTING: INSIGHTS FROM ANGELES CITY, PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This research delves into the intricate relationship between police cynicism and crime reporting behavior in Angeles City, Philippines. It takes a comprehensive approach, aiming to identify both the factors that encourage and discourage crime reporting while examining the influence of police cynicism. The research utilizes a mixed-methods design, encompassing a descriptive survey and correlation research. The survey includes questions regarding individuals' attitudes towards the police, their willingness to report crimes, and their perceptions of the police's effectiveness in combating crime. The correlation research specifically delves into the connection between police cynicism and crime-reporting behavior, hypothesizing that higher levels of police cynicism correlate with lower levels of crime reporting and vice versa. The findings of this study carry significant implications for improving crime reporting behavior, ultimately contributing to enhanced safety in Angeles City. The research underscores the existence of generally positive attitudes toward crime reporting, driven by an awareness of the seriousness of offenses, a sense of empowerment, and a shared responsibility for community well-being. This positive disposition emphasizes the need for law enforcement agencies and policymakers to consider community engagement strategies and initiatives that encourage reporting. The research also reveals that discouraging factors do exist, particularly concerning non-traditional crimes, where fears and distrust in the justice system play a significant role. While there is a prevailing trust in the local police's effectiveness, the weak correlation between positive police perceptions and actual reporting behavior highlights the need for a holistic approach in policy development. Furthermore, the positive correlation between discouragement and encouragement factors in reporting suggests potential policy implications, calling for in-depth research to further comprehend the intricate dynamics influencing reporting behavior. The findings collectively emphasize the multifaceted nature of public perceptions and reporting motivations, underlining the interconnectedness of these elements. Policymakers are encouraged to adopt comprehensive approaches that foster community trust and enhance reporting behavior, while researchers are urged to delve deeper into these nuanced relationships to inform evidence-based policies for public safety and more effective law enforcement in Angeles City.