This study investigated how digitalization and social media influenced the value formation and corruption propensity of law students in the Philippines. We utilized a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, quantitatively assessing students' digital engagement, their perceived digital influence on values, and their value profiles (using selected Panukat ng Ugali at Pagkatao (PUP) subscales) and corruption propensity (via adapted scenarios). Simultaneously, we gathered qualitative data through focus group discussions and interviews, exploring nuanced perceptions of online narratives regarding integrity and corruption. Findings indicated that while digitalization offered opportunities for positive influence by raising awareness of social issues, exposure to normalized corrupt practices online contributed to a heightened sense of cynicism and a subtle increase in students' conformity to unethical norms. This pervasive digital environment, in which many corrupt acts appeared to go unpunished, appeared to weaken the students' Pagkamapunahin (criticalness) and Lakas ng Loob (guts/daring), thereby elevating their corruption propensity. The research provides actionable recommendations for integrating digital ethics and critical media literacy into legal education to foster ethically resilient legal professionals.
Digitalization, Social media, Value formation, Corruption propensity, Law students, Ethical development, Legal education, Panukat ng Ugali at Pagkatao (PUP), Digital ethics, Critical media literacy.
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