Cheating in the Workplace: New Directions in Theory and Research

Abstract

In recent years, scholarly interest in unethical behavior in the workplace has been rapidly increasing. Recent research in this area has highlighted that unethical behavior is routinely committed by “ordinary&x201D; people – people who generally care about morality, yet cheat when given the opportunity. However, the literature on workplace cheating behavior is still in its infancy; we lack a precise understanding of the processes and mechanisms underlying cheating behavior and the outcomes for individuals and organizations. Drawing upon multiple theoretical perspectives and methodologies, this symposium brings together leading experts to provide new insights that can contribute to a richer and more precise understanding of workplace cheating behavior. Together, the four paper presentations will enhance our understanding of (a) the organization-level antecedents that can lead to workplace cheating behavior (e.g., performance pressure), (b) cognitive and affective mechanisms (e.g., self-concern, anger) explaining the link between antecedents and cheating behavior, (c) organization- level (e.g., codes of conduct) and individual-level (e.g., self- affirmation) factors that moderate the likelihood that employees will engage in cheating behavior, and (c) organizationally- relevant outcomes (e.g., complaint intentions) at both the individual and interpersonal level that may follow from cheating. The session will conclude with an interactive discussion led by Dr. Scott Reynolds aimed at integrating our knowledge in this area as well as identifying promising new research avenues.