Association of Marketing Theory and Practice, Association of Marketing Theory and Practice 2010

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Ethical Decision-Making of Business Students: A Field Observation

Cynthia Rodriguez Cano, Doreen Sams

Building: Hilton Ocean Front Resort
Room: Promenade 8
Date: 03-26-2010 - 09:30 AM – 10:45 PM
Last modified: 01-19-2010

Abstract


For the first time, field observation research is conducted in a natural, controlled environment (i.e., classroom) to investigate ethical decision-making of college students. One hundred twelve (112) students enrolled in four Principles of Marketing classes in a southeastern US university participated in the study. The findings reveal that given the opportunity to cheat, 100% of students that were not sensitized to the importance of ethical behavior cheated. Furthermore, a number of these students made a conscience effort to cover up their actions. For sensitized students, some engaged in cheating while others did not. Recommendations for developing marketing curriculums are offered.

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