Unethical Behavior: Causes and

Consequences

Recent research completed by Harvard researcher Max Bazerman and University of Notre Dame researcher Ann Tenbrunsel resulted in findings that indicate that although there are "criminally minded" people in organizations, most people are good people who behave unethically due to cognitive biases and organizational practices. One outcome of this research is a list of causes of unethical behavior in the organization along with suggested ways for managers to deal with these behaviors.

Unfortunately, managers have to deal with the unethical behaviors of their employees on a regular basis. Based on research recently completed by researchers Max Bazerman and Ann Tenbrunsel, a list of causes of unethical behaviors and suggested remedies was compiled. Having a basic understanding of what causes these types of behaviors and what to do about them will help future manager's be prepared to deal with these ethical dilemmas when they face them in their careers.

Roll over each of the causes of unethical behavior in the list and read the description. Next, click and drag the cause into the correct area in the table.

Overvaluing outcomes

Motivated blindness

Causes of Unethical Behavior

Example

Auditors may be more likely to accept a client firm's questionable financial statements if infractions have accrued over time,

A researcher whose fraudulent clinical trial saves lives is considered more

Remedy

Be alert for even trivial ethical infractions and address them immediately. Investigate whether a change in behavior has occurred.

Examine both "good" and "bad" decisions for their ethical

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