Social Factors behind Academic Dishonesty as Perceived by the Postgraduate Students

Abstract

This study was conducted to explore the social factors behind the academic dishonesty and consequences faced by the post-graduate students at University of Agriculture Faisalabad. Total 105 students were selected using random sampling technique from the Faculty of Social Sciences. The data were collected through reliable and validated questionnaire and collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results indicated that sense of competition, social rejection, social justice, illiterate background of the students, social insecurity, inferiority complex, societal pressure, low self-worth were the prominent social factors causing academic dishonesty among students. Loss of opportunity, loss of future, facing discrimination, low self-esteem, loss of respect and public insecurity were the prominent consequences being faced by the students committing academic dishonesties. Apart from the disciplinary action, there is also a need of awareness and counselling campaigns among students to refrain from the academic dishonesty.