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Sensemaking Strategies for Ethical Decision-making
Jay J Caughron1, Alison L Antes2, Cheryl K Stenmark3
1Radford University.
Ethics & Behavior
|August 11, 2015
Summary
This study explored ethical decision-making in undergraduates using a sensemaking model. Framing outcomes globally, not personally, enhanced pro-ethical reasoning strategies.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Organizational Behavior
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Ethical decision-making is complex, influenced by cognitive processes and situational factors.
- Sensemaking models and specific thinking strategies are crucial for understanding ethical choices.
- Personal involvement in ethical dilemmas can impact reasoning and decision outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the role of a sensemaking model and cognitive reasoning strategies in ethical decision-making.
- To investigate how personal involvement (in causing and experiencing ethical problems) affects the use of these strategies.
- To test a mediated model where environmental factors, reasoning strategies, and sensemaking influence ethical decisions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a sample of 163 undergraduates.
- Employed a low-fidelity simulation approach to present ethical scenarios.
- Applied a mediated model to analyze the relationships between environmental factors, reasoning strategies, sensemaking, and ethical decision-making.
Main Results:
- Findings partially supported the hypothesized mediated model.
- Personal involvement showed mixed effects on cognitive reasoning strategy use.
- Framing outcomes in terms of global organizational impact, rather than personal consequences, promoted pro-ethical reasoning.
Conclusions:
- The study provides insights into the cognitive processes underlying ethical decision-making.
- Organizational framing of ethical issues can be a strategy to encourage more ethical reasoning.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interplay of factors in ethical decision-making.
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